Casualties unknown

Piper PA-18 Nose Over During Landing on Soft Terrain (N4007Z)

Aurora, CO, US

On July 3, 1982, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N4007Z) operated by James C. Haselden was involved in an aviation accident near Aurora, CO. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a refamiliarization flight, a Piper PA-18 nosed over after encountering soft terrain during the third landing. The pilot admitted to a high, fast approach and applying brakes, which caused the wheels to dig in.

Accident Details

The pilot-in-command (PIC) was refamiliarizing himself in a Piper PA-18, occupying the front seat while the owner acted as second-in-command in the backseat. On the third landing, the aircraft encountered soft terrain towards the end of the roll-out. The PIC stated that application of brakes compounded the problem, with the wheels digging in, resulting in a nose over.

Pilot Statements

In a telephone conversation, the PIC admitted that the approach was high and fast and that he overshot the planned touchdown point. The owner stated that the aircraft was equipped with oversize tires and Cleveland brakes.

Conclusion

The source provides no further details regarding injuries or damage. The probable cause is not explicitly stated in the investigation source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03151. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.