What happened
On 19 August 2025, a Cessna 180 with a tailwheel landing gear was approaching runway 20 at Borroloola Aerodrome, Northern Territory, in variable, moderate crosswind conditions. There were 2 pilots and 1 passenger on board. Just after touchdown, the aircraft turned into the wind and started to veer left off the runway. The pilot in command initiated a go-around and as the aircraft began to lift off, it continued drifting off the runway.
The left wheel struck a mound of dirt beside the runway and the wheel departed the aircraft, causing the aircraft to rotate, collide with the ground and skid sideways, subsequently striking a concrete culvert before coming to rest (Figure 1). The aircraft was substantially damaged during the accident, however the 3 people on board were uninjured.
Figure 1: Aircraft damage
Source: Borroloola Aerodrome operator
Safety message
This accident provides a reminder for pilots to be prepared to conduct a missed approach, particularly in tailwheel aircraft during crosswind conditions. Tailwheel aircraft have less directional stability on the ground due to the location of the centre of gravity behind the main wheels. They are more susceptible to the effects of crosswind and the tail can have a tendency to swing sideways on the ground. They require more active input to maintain directional control and any yaw needs to be corrected immediately as it can quickly lead to a large swing and potential loss of control. If conditions during approach are challenging, an early go-around can provide an opportunity to reassess the landing options and make a reasoned decision about whether to attempt another approach and plan for how to manage the conditions.
About this report
Decisions regarding whether to conduct an investigation, and the scope of an investigation, are based on many factors, including the level of safety benefit likely to be obtained from an investigation. For this occurrence, no investigation has been conducted and the ATSB did not verify the accuracy of the information. A brief description has been written using information supplied in the notification and any follow-up information in order to produce a short summary report, and allow for greater industry awareness of potential safety issues and possible safety actions.