Aircraft Overturns During Student Pilot Landing Rollout

Casualties unknown • Knik, AK, US

A student pilot's erratic control and heavy braking during a landing rollout caused an aircraft to nose over and flip onto its back.

What happened

During an instructional flight, a student pilot was performing a series of full-stop wheel landings at the airport. Following the landing on the accident flight, the student pilot retarded the throttle to idle but began exhibiting erratic longitudinal control during the rollout phase.

In an attempt to maintain directional control, the instructor pilot applied left rudder and elevator control to bring the tailwheel onto the ground. Simultaneously, the student pilot depressed the brake pedals. This combination of inputs caused the aircraft to pitch forward onto its nose and subsequently overturn onto its back. The aircraft was equipped with dual puck Cleveland brakes, which were noted for their high sensitivity.

Findings

Prior to the flight in question, the instructor had specifically advised the student pilot that the brakes were extremely sensitive and instructed them to avoid using them excessively.

Probable cause

The student pilot's erratic longitudinal control and application of the brakes during the landing rollout, combined with the instructor's attempt to correct directional control, caused the aircraft to nose over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1993-06-12 Piper PA-3 accident near Knik, AK?

A student pilot's erratic control and heavy braking during a landing rollout caused an aircraft to nose over and flip onto its back.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1993-06-12 involved a Piper PA-3, registration N91952, operated by Tanner, John, at Knik, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's erratic longitudinal control and application of the brakes during the landing rollout, combined with the instructor's attempt to correct directional control, caused the aircraft to nose over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12504. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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