On April 7, 1995, a Piper PA-12 (registration N3680M) operated by Alaska Flying Network was involved in an aviation accident near Soldotna, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR'S INADEQUATE REMEDIAL ACTION. FACTORS INCLUDE THE DUAL STUDENT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL, AND THE REAR PILOT'S STATION NOT HAVING BRAKES INSTALLED. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While receiving dual instruction for tail wheel familiarization, a private pilot lost directional control during a touch-and-go landing. The instructor could not regain control, and the left wing struck the runway during remedial action.
Incident Details
A private pilot, who was receiving dual instruction for the purpose of tail wheel familiarization, lost directional control of the airplane while executing a touch-and-go landing. The flight instructor was unable to regain directional control, and during the instructor's remedial action, the airplane's left wing impacted the runway.
Instructor's Account
The flight instructor reported that the airplane was not equipped with brakes in the aft seat. He stated that he believed he was not able to maintain directional control because he was unable to apply differential braking.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 7 Apr 1995 Piper PA-12 accident near Soldotna, AK?
While receiving dual instruction for tail wheel familiarization, a private pilot lost directional control during a touch-and-go landing. The instructor could not regain control, and the left wing struck the runway during remedial action.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Apr 1995 involved a Piper PA-12, registration N3680M, operated by Alaska Flying Network, at Soldotna, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR'S INADEQUATE REMEDIAL ACTION. FACTORS INCLUDE THE DUAL STUDENT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL, AND THE REAR PILOT'S STATION NOT HAVING BRAKES INSTALLED.
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