On April 5, 1991, a Piper PA-12 (registration N123TL) operated by David E. Williams was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to apply brakes immediately upon touchdown during his first flight on wheel landing gear, which resulted in a nose-over. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced a nose-over after touching down on short final during his first flight using wheel landing gear, following tower instructions for minimum runway time.
What happened
The pilot had recently modified the aircraft's landing configuration, switching from skis to wheels. This event marked the pilot's inaugural flight utilizing this specific type of landing gear. During the approach phase, the aircraft was on short final when air traffic control issued a request for minimum time on the runway.
According to the pilot's account, he applied the brakes immediately upon touchdown. The application of braking force caused the aircraft to pitch forward rapidly, resulting in a nose-over incident. No mechanical failures or difficulties were identified with the aircraft during the subsequent examination.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to apply brakes immediately upon touchdown during his first flight on wheel landing gear, which resulted in a nose-over.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 5 Apr 1991 Piper PA-12 accident near Anchorage, AK?
A pilot experienced a nose-over after touching down on short final during his first flight using wheel landing gear, following tower instructions for minimum runway time.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Apr 1991 involved a Piper PA-12, registration N123TL, operated by David E. Williams, at Anchorage, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to apply brakes immediately upon touchdown during his first flight on wheel landing gear, which resulted in a nose-over.
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