Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 180 near Tok, AK — 2020-10-01

Final reportANC20LA100
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Date
2020-10-01
Location
Tok, AK, USA
Airport
6K8
Aircraft
CESSNA 180
Registration
N926LL
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

The mechanic’s failure to properly repair the tailwheel, which resulted in a malfunction of the tailwheel and a loss of directional control.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that after landing, as the airplane decelerated and rudder effectiveness diminished, the airplane veered abruptly to the right. Left rudder was applied but was unsuccessful in controlling the airplane. The airplane exited the runway and the left main gear separated from the gear box resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage. A postaccident examination revealed excessive wear, damage, and a missing component inconsistent with proper tailwheel maintenance occurring the day before the accident.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Proper inspection of tailwheel repair could have prevented the accident.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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