Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary SEA05LA094

Elk River, ID, USA

Aircraft #1

N77377

Cessna 120

Analysis

The pilot reported that he was landing on runway 17. During the landing roll, he failed to maintain directional control and the aircraft ground looped. The propeller as well as the left wing contacted the surface, damaging the wing tip and outboard section of the aileron. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the aircraft at the time of the accident. The winds were reported as calm.

Factual Information

On May 5, 2005, about 0800 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 120, N77377, registered to and operated by the pilot as a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight, ground looped during the landing roll at Elk River, Idaho. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The aircraft was substantially damaged and the private pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The flight originated from Lewiston, Idaho, about one hour prior to the accident. During a telephone interview, the pilot reported that he was landing on runway 17. During the landing roll, he failed to maintain directional control and the aircraft ground looped. The propeller as well as the left wing contacted the surface, damaging the wing tip and outboard section of the aileron. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the aircraft at the time of the accident. The pilot reported that the weather was clear and the winds were calm.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. An inadvertent ground loop was a factor.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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