Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
On February 15, 1998, at 1417 mountain standard time, a Piper PA-17, N4835H, sustained substantial damage during a ground loop after landing at Bozeman, Montana. The private pilot, the sole occupant, was uninjured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the local flight. No flight plan was filed, and there was no report of an ELT actuating.
FAA inspectors reported finding no evidence of preexisting mechanical discrepancies that could have led to the accident. The pilot stated that he "got behind and ground-looped."
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# SEA98LA036