NTSB Factual Report

On February 11, 2004, about 1400 eastern standard time, an American Champion 7GCAA, N246SG, registered to and operated by a private individual, as a Title 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight, ground looped during landing at the Sebring Regional Airport, Sebring, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The private-rated pilot and passenger received no injuries, and the airplane incurred substantial damage. The flight originated from Avon Park Municipal Airport, Avon Park, Florida, the same day, about 1330.

The pilot stated that his approach to land on runway 18 was uneventful. The pilot further stated that as the airplane touched down on the mains and tail wheels simultaneously, the airplane suddenly veered to the left. He said he applied right rudder in an attempt maintain control of the airplane, but it skidded and swung to the left. According to the pilot, there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions to the airplane or any of its systems prior to the accident.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control during the landing rollout which resulted in the airplane ground looping and incurring damage.