On August 20, 2019, a Cessna 180 F was involved in an aviation accident near Arlington, WA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to properly secure the seat before takeoff, which resulted in it sliding back during takeoff and rendering him unable to reach the rudder pedals and throttle lever, a subsequent runway excursion, ground loop, and impact with a berm. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff, a tailwheel airplane's seat slid back, preventing the pilot from reaching the rudder pedals and throttle. The airplane veered left, exited the runway, ground looped, and struck a berm, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing.
Accident Details
A pilot operating a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that prior to takeoff, he adjusted his seat. During the takeoff roll, the seat slid backward, preventing him from reaching the rudder pedals or the throttle lever. The airplane accelerated, veered left, exited the runway to the left, ground looped, and impacted a berm.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing as a result of the impact.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Incorrect use/operationDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedPilotEffect on operation
Related events
Same aircraft family
19 Sep 2026 — CESSNA 180
13 Sep 2026 — CESSNA 180
30 Aug 2026 — CESSNA 180A
27 Aug 2026 — CESSNA 180E
18 Aug 2026 — CESSNA 180J
16 Aug 2026 — CESSNA 180
10 Aug 2026 — CESSNA 180
31 Jul 2026 — CESSNA 180
22 Jul 2026 — CESSNA 180K
9 Jul 2026 — CESSNA 180
3 Jul 2026 — CESSNA 180
21 Jun 2026 — CESSNA 180H
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Aug 2019 Cessna 180 F accident near Arlington, WA?
During takeoff, a tailwheel airplane's seat slid back, preventing the pilot from reaching the rudder pedals and throttle. The airplane veered left, exited the runway, ground looped, and struck a berm, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing.
Were there any fatalities in the 20 Aug 2019 Cessna 180 F accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Aug 2019 involved a Cessna 180 F, at Arlington, WA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to properly secure the seat before takeoff, which resulted in it sliding back during takeoff and rendering him unable to reach the rudder pedals and throttle lever, a subsequent runway excursion, ground loop, and impact with a berm.
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