No fatalities

22 Aug 2015: CESSNA 180 — SMITH AIR CHARTERS — HOMER, AK

HOMER, AK, United States

On 22 Aug 2015, a CESSNA 180 operated by SMITH AIR CHARTERS was involved in an aviation accident near HOMER, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain directional control after the right tire impacted a sand drift during the landing rollout in gusty crosswind conditions, leading to a ground loop. 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 Cessna 180 tailwheel airplane sustained substantial damage during landing on a beach when the right tire hit a sand drift in gusty crosswind, causing a ground loop.

Accident Overview

A pilot landing a tailwheel-equipped Cessna 180 airplane on a beach experienced a loss of directional control after the right tire impacted a sand drift during the rollout. The airplane subsequently entered a ground loop, resulting in substantial damage.

Landing and Wind Conditions

The pilot was landing to the south. He reported that the wind was gusting about 35 knots across the beach at the time of the landing.

Sequence of Events

During the landing rollout, the right tire struck a sand drift. The pilot stated he was unable to maintain directional control. The airplane then entered a ground loop.

Aircraft Damage

Substantial damage was sustained to the left wing and elevator. The extent of damage to other components was not specified.

Mechanical Status

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Pilot Information

The pilot was the sole occupant. No injuries were reported. The pilot's identity and experience level were not provided.

Investigation Status

The investigation was conducted by the relevant aviation authority. Further details have not been released.

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to maintain directional control after the right tire impacted a sand drift during the landing rollout in gusty crosswind conditions, leading to a ground loop.

Contributing factors

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained