Cessna 180G N223WH accident near Stevens Point, Wisconsin

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing that resulted in a ground loop and impact with the runway.

NTSB analysis

The pilot stated that during the approach to the destination airport, the winds were reported as 040o and 340o at 8 kts. The pilot chose to land on runway 30 because the airport windsock was pointed almost straight down the runway. The airplane touched down smoothly during landing, and he had the control yoke back and the ailerons rotated slightly into the wind in anticipation of a crosswind. The pilot stated the crosswind came suddenly and lifted the right wing. He added left aileron and “strong” left rudder, but it was too late to regain control. The airplane ground looped and struck the runway surface. The airplane sustained substantial damage that included left wing damage inboard of the left wing tip, left aileron, and left elevator. The pilot stated there was no mechanical malfunction/failure of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented by reducing flaps from 40o after landing and applying additional aileron control input.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23LA236 for the full record.