This November 2007 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Cessna 140. Location: Poultney, Vt. Injuries: None. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot was building a runway on his property and was anxious to try it out. Takeoff was normal but during the landing the right wheel hit a rock and the airplane ground looped to the right, then to the left. The Cessna stopped when it hit a ditch. Both wings were crushed and the engine was pushed back into the cockpit. The FAA inspector said the runway was in no condition to accommodate aircraft.
Probable cause: The pilot’s attempt to land on an unimproved airstrip, resulting in a ground loop/swerve.
For more information: NTSB.gov
