Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over on Gravel Airstrip After Landing (N1192C)

Nenana, AK, US

On May 3, 1990, a Piper PA-18 (registration N1192C) was involved in an aviation accident near Nenana, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE MAIN WHEELS (OR BRAKES) HAD LOCKED FOR AN UNKNOWN REASON. 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

A pilot reported that shortly after touchdown on a remote gravel airstrip, the aircraft nosed over. The wheels were found locked, but brakes moved freely the next day. The pilot had serviced the brakes and released the parking brake.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that shortly after touchdown on a gravel airstrip in a remote area, the aircraft nosed over. Despite the pilot's attempts to keep the tail from raising, the aircraft tilted forward. After exiting the aircraft, the pilot inspected the wheels and found them to be "locked up."

Response

The pilot camped overnight at the site and waited to be rescued the following day. When he checked the brakes the next morning, they were free to rotate with only a slight drag.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that he had serviced the brakes after the previous flight and that he had released the parking brake. In a written statement, the pilot estimated the surface temperature was about 38 degrees.

Investigation

No probable cause has been stated in the available information. The aircraft type, registration, and other details were not provided.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23041. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.