Primary finding
Probable cause
the pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind gust.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot said he landed on the runway and encountered a gust of wind during the rollout. The aircraft then ground looped off the runway, collapsing the right main gear and damaging the wing.
Source record
Factual narrative
On September 2, 1995, at 0645 mountain standard time, a Cessna 180B, N5059E, ground looped off the runway while landing at Cooledge, Arizona. The aircraft was operated by the pilot and was on a cross-country personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The aircraft incurred substantial damage to the right wing and horizontal stabilizer. The certificated private pilot and his three passengers were not injured. The flight originated at Globe, Arizona, on the day of the accident at 0615. In his statement, the pilot said he landed on the runway and encountered a gust of wind during the rollout. The aircraft then ground looped off the runway, collapsing the right main gear and damaging the wing. -