Aircraft ground loop and wing damage during beach landing

Casualties unknown • Pedro Bay, AK, US

A commercial pilot experienced a ground loop while landing on a remote tidal beach, resulting in significant damage to the aircraft's right wing.

What happened

A commercial pilot was performing a landing at a remote tidal beach site. During the landing roll, the aircraft began to veer toward the left, moving toward the water. The pilot was unable to correct this directional deviation, which resulted in a ground loop to the left. During the maneuver, the right main landing gear leg collapsed and the right wing struck the surface of the beach. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to its right wing.

Due to the remote location, the aircraft was not recovered before being subjected to numerous tide cycles. Consequently, the aircraft underwent extensive damage prior to a post-accident inspection being completed.

Probable cause

The pilot's suspicion that the tail wheel malfunctioned contributed to the loss of directional control during the landing roll.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2007-08-10 Cessna 185 accident near Pedro Bay, AK?

A commercial pilot experienced a ground loop while landing on a remote tidal beach, resulting in significant damage to the aircraft's right wing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2007-08-10 involved a Cessna 185, registration N3306R, at Pedro Bay, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's suspicion that the tail wheel malfunctioned contributed to the loss of directional control during the landing roll.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070928X01477. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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