No fatalities

27 Feb 2009: CESSNA 170B — QUINN JERRY A — Homer, AK

Homer, AK, United States

On 27 Feb 2009, a CESSNA 170B operated by QUINN JERRY A was involved in an aviation accident near Homer, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, resulting in a ground loop and substantial damage to the airplane. Factors contributing to the accident were a tailwind, and the pilot's decision to land downwind. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot landing a tailwheel airplane with a tailwind experienced a ground loop after losing directional control; the left aileron sustained substantial damage.

Incident Overview

A private pilot reported an incident during the landing roll of a tailwheel airplane on a hard-surfaced runway with an approximate 9-knot tailwind. During the landing roll, the airplane swerved. The pilot attempted to correct the swerve using rudder and brake inputs but was unable to regain control.

Emergency Power Application

In an effort to regain control, the pilot attempted to rapidly apply engine power. However, the engine hesitated before responding. The airplane then ground looped to the right, causing the left wing to strike the runway.

Damage Assessment

During the ground loop, the left aileron sustained substantial damage. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.

Contributing Factors

The source does not explicitly state causal factors. The pilot's report notes the tailwind, the inability to correct the swerve with rudder and brakes, and the engine hesitation during rapid throttle application.

Contributing factors

Causes

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot

Other contributing factors

Decision related to condition