Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary DEN07CA032

Riverton, WY, USA

Aircraft #1

N82236

Piper PA-18-150

Analysis

According to the pilot, the landing approach and the touchdown were normal. Shortly after touchdown, the airplane began to turn to the left, and the pilot corrected the turn by applying right rudder. The airplane then corrected to the right, however, the pilot stated he "must have held right rudder too long resulting in the aircraft ground looping to the right. The only cause [pilot] can attribute to the ground loop was pilot error." During the ground loop, the left wing contacted the ground, damaging the spar.

Factual Information

According to the pilot, the approach was normal and the touchdown speed was approximately 55 miles per hour. Shortly after touchdown, the airplane began to turn to the left and the pilot corrected the turn by applying right rudder. The airplane then corrected to the right, however, the pilot stated he "must have held right rudder too long resulting in the aircraft ground looping to the right. The only cause [pilot] can attribute to the ground loop was pilot error." During the ground loop, the left wing contacted the ground. Examination of the airplane revealed the left wing spar was damaged. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was not injured. The accident was reported to the National Transportation Safety Board on December 4, 2006.

Probable Cause and Findings

the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, resulting in a ground loop.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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