Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he performed a wheel landing on the concrete runway surface. During the landing roll with the tailwheel on the ground, the airplane swerved right, and he corrected with left rudder and left brake. The left wing and left elevator struck the ground. The pilot was able to regain control of the airplane and taxi to the parking area. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA19CA415 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 22, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Panama City, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Northwest Florida Beaches Intl (ECP)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 180
- N-number
- N5239D
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1957
- 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.