On September 12, 2007, a Boeing Stearman E75 (registration N68462) operated by Ken Horwitz was involved in an aviation accident near Gordon, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's use of rudder to enhance forward visibility during a crosswind landing, resulting in a loss of directional control, and the subsequent addition of full power for a go-around which caused a ground loop. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft sustained substantial damage during a crosswind landing after the pilot lost directional control due to rudder use and a subsequent ground loop during a go-around attempt. No injuries were reported.
Incident Overview
An aircraft was substantially damaged during a crosswind landing, according to a pilot report. The pilot indicated that the aircraft landed in a three-point attitude. He reported that gusting crosswind conditions were present.
Sequence of Events
The pilot stated that his use of rudder to enhance forward visibility caused the aircraft to lose directional control. In an attempt to recover, he added full power to initiate a go-around. However, this action caused the aircraft to ground loop, resulting in substantial damage.
Outcome
There were no injuries to the pilot or any other occupants. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the accident.
Probable cause
The pilot's use of rudder to enhance forward visibility during a crosswind landing, resulting in a loss of directional control, and the subsequent addition of full power for a go-around which caused a ground loop.