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 during the landing roll the airplane swerved to the right and thought that she had it under control, when suddenly the airplane hit an uneven area. The airplane started a slow right turn that resulted in the left wing tip impacting the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR13CA352 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 26, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Hungry Horse, Montana
- Nearest airport
- Schafer (Usfs) (8U2)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 180J
- N-number
- N9286C
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.