Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll with crosswind conditions.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during landing and as the tailwheel was settling on the runway, there was an "apparent change in wind direction," and the airplane veered left. He attempted to correct by applying right rudder and brake, but the airplane continued off the left side of the runway and ground looped.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing, the right horizontal stabilizer, and the elevator.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The automated weather observation system at the airport, about the time of the accident, reported that the was wind from 300° at 9 knots. The pilot landed on runway 2L.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA231 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 12, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kenai, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Kenai Muni (ENA)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 180
- N-number
- N2144Z
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1963
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.