Casualties unknown

Nose-over during taxi after touch-and-go landings (N4388Z)

Wasilla, AK, US

On May 27, 1993, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N4388Z) operated by Cline, Epton D. was involved in an aviation accident near Wasilla, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and nose-over. 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 light aircraft veered right and nosed over while rolling to a stop following a series of touch-and-go landings, with no mechanical issues found in the wheel or brake system.

What happened

The pilot had recently completed a sequence of touch-and-go landings before executing a full-stop landing. As the aircraft was rolling toward a halt on the runway, it began to drift sharply to the right side. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation using standard control inputs, but these efforts proved ineffective. Consequently, the airplane departed the paved surface and subsequently nosed over.

The investigation

Following the incident, investigators examined the aircraft's wheel and brake systems for any signs of malfunction or irregularity. The inspection revealed no mechanical defects within these components. It was noted that the airplane was equipped with 29-inch tires.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and nose-over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12270. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.