Pilot Debrief

Cessna A185 near VALPARAISO, IN — 2019-05-04

Final reportGAA19CA244
Sign in to save
Date
2019-05-04
Location
VALPARAISO, IN, USA
Airport
VPZ
Aircraft
Cessna A185
Registration
N7711L
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's improper throttle application and subsequent failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll in gusting left crosswind conditions, which resulted in a ground loop.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that he was performing stop-and-go takeoffs and landings. During a takeoff roll, the tailwheel lifted off the ground, and the airplane encountered a significant wind from the left. He applied left aileron and right rudder to compensate for the wind, but the airplane ground looped to the left. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and right aileron. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot added that a "slower application of the throttle and keeping the tailwheel on the ground longer during the takeoff roll, will prevent this type of accident from occurring in the future."

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

Related mishaps