No fatalities

Tailwheel Airplane Ground-Loops on Landing, Sustains Wing and Control Surface Damage

Palmer, AK, United States

On June 12, 2010, a CESSNA 170B operated by Harold Parker was involved in an aviation accident near Palmer, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing in variable wind conditions. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

During landing roll, a tailwheel airplane ground-looped to the right after the pilot lost directional control, resulting in damage to the left wing, aileron, and elevator. The pilot reported variable wind conditions but no mechanical issues.

Accident Details

A tailwheel airplane experienced a ground loop during the landing roll on a hard-surfaced runway. The event resulted in damage to the left wing, left aileron, and left elevator.

Pilot's Account

The pilot reported that the flight was a Title 14, CFR Part 91 personal flight. After landing, during the landing roll, directional control was lost and the airplane ground-looped to the right. The pilot noted that the wind was 5 to 8 knots and variable in direction. He indicated that if he had been more aware of the variable wind direction, he would have reduced taxi speed and anticipated a possible wind shift. The pilot stated there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.

Damage

The ground loop damaged the left wing, left aileron, and left elevator. No other damage was reported.

Contributing factors

Causes

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot

Other contributing factors

Contributed to outcome

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Jun 2010 CESSNA 170B accident near Palmer, AK?

During landing roll, a tailwheel airplane ground-looped to the right after the pilot lost directional control, resulting in damage to the left wing, aileron, and elevator. The pilot reported variable wind conditions but no mechanical issues.

Were there any fatalities in the 12 Jun 2010 CESSNA 170B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Jun 2010 involved a CESSNA 170B, operated by Harold Parker, at Palmer, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing in variable wind conditions.