Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 305C (0-1E) near Big Bear City, CA — 2023-06-17

Final reportWPR23LA229
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Date
2023-06-17
Location
Big Bear City, CA, USA
Airport
L35
Aircraft
CESSNA 305C (0-1E)
Registration
N62TX
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during takeoff.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during takeoff, the airplane yawed left, exited the runway, and ground looped. During the ground loop, the airplane’s right wing impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the tailwheel head bracket was broken in two places. Metallurgical examination of the fractured tailwheel head bracket revealed that the bracket flanges had separated due to overstress, likely because of the pilot’s loss of airplane control during takeoff and subsequent ground loop. The wind at the airport about the time of the accident was reported to be calm.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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