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Tailwheel Airplane Ground Loop During Gusty Landing Roll

Gooding, ID, United States

On August 30, 2016, a CESSNA A185 E was involved in an aviation accident near Gooding, ID. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with terrain. 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 in variable gusting wind, a tailwheel airplane entered an uncontrolled left turn, departed the runway, became airborne, and impacted the ground inverted, sustaining substantial damage.

Accident Overview

A tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a loss of directional control during the landing roll in variable gusting wind conditions. The pilot reported that the airplane initiated an uncontrolled left turn, and he applied throttle in an attempt to regain control, but the action had no effect.

Sequence of Events

The airplane exited the left side of the runway during the turn. Subsequently, it became airborne and rolled left, causing the left wing to strike the ground. The airplane then came to rest in an inverted position.

Damage

The accident resulted in substantial damage to both wings, the fuselage, and the empennage.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Causes

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot

Other contributing factors

Effect on operationContributed to outcome

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Aug 2016 CESSNA A185 E accident near Gooding, ID?

During landing roll in variable gusting wind, a tailwheel airplane entered an uncontrolled left turn, departed the runway, became airborne, and impacted the ground inverted, sustaining substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Aug 2016 CESSNA A185 E accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Aug 2016 involved a CESSNA A185 E, at Gooding, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with terrain.

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