Ground loop (aviation)

In severe cases (particularly if the ground surface is soft), the inside wing can dig in, causing the aircraft to swing violently or even cartwheel.

In powered aeroplanes, the ground loop phenomenon is predominantly associated with aircraft that have conventional landing gear, due to the centre of gravity being positioned behind the main wheels.

To avoid a ground loop, the pilot must respond to any turning tendency quickly, while sufficient control authority is available to counteract it.

A controlled ground loop may also be used as a rudimentary form of emergency braking while landing, "in case one is still rolling too fast to stop."

Tow plane pilots are taught to delay applying full power until the glider is moving fast enough that its tail is off the ground, reducing the angle of attack on the wing.

Pilots may decide to execute a ground loop deliberately, usually as a last resort before hitting an immovable object, as in the case of China Airlines Flight 605.