Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing in crosswind conditions, which resulted in a ground-loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, while practicing landings, he completed one go-around and two landings without incident. On his next landing attempt, the airplane encountered a left crosswind during the landing flare. Despite his attempts to maintain directional control, the airplane ground looped and veered off the left side of the runway. The right wing sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR20CA085 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 27, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Eloy, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- Eloy Muni (E60)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 180
- N-number
- N9729B
- 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.