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Bounced Landing Leads to Ground Loop and Substantial Fuselage Damage

Willows, CA, United States

On March 24, 2010, a HARDIE JAMES D KIT FOX XL was involved in an aviation accident near Willows, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s improper flare, resulting in a bounced landing and ground loop. This summary draws on records from NTSB.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that a high flare during landing caused a bounce. During recovery, the aircraft swerved right and ground looped into the grass, sustaining substantial fuselage damage. No mechanical failures were reported.

Incident Overview and Pilot Report The pilot reported that during the landing phase, the aircraft flared too high, which resulted in a bounced landing. The pilot then attempted to recover from the bounce. ## Sequence of Events During the attempted recovery, the airplane swerved to the right and entered a ground loop. The aircraft came to rest in the grass adjacent to the runway. ## Damage and Mechanical Status The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures prior to the accident. The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, location, or cause.

Contributing factors

Incorrect use/operationDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Mar 2010 HARDIE JAMES D KIT FOX XL accident near Willows, CA?

A pilot reported that a high flare during landing caused a bounce. During recovery, the aircraft swerved right and ground looped into the grass, sustaining substantial fuselage damage. No mechanical failures were reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Mar 2010 HARDIE JAMES D KIT FOX XL accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Mar 2010 involved a HARDIE JAMES D KIT FOX XL, at Willows, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot’s improper flare, resulting in a bounced landing and ground loop.

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