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Aircraft Nose-Over on Gravel Strip After Hard Braking on Short Final (N88401)

Richland, WA, US

On June 2, 1996, a Bellanca 8GCBC (registration N88401) was involved in an aviation accident near Richland, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to perform a go-around and his subsequent excessive use of the aircraft brakes. The short airstrip length and the pilot's excessive airspeed for the approach were related factors. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot landed fast on a 1,000-foot gravel strip. After hard braking, the tail rose. The aircraft then hit soft dirt and flipped onto its back.

Accident Overview

The accident involved a pilot landing on a 1,000-foot-long gravel airstrip. The pilot described being "a little hot" on the approach, with an indicated airspeed of about 62 mph on short final. Despite considering a go-around twice during the approach, the pilot did not execute one.

Sequence of Events

Following touchdown, the pilot increased braking pressure to bring the aircraft to a stop within the limited runway length. This aggressive braking caused the aircraft's tail to lift off the ground. While the tail was elevated, the aircraft veered left and encountered soft ground at the edge of the airstrip. The aircraft then flipped over onto its back.

Pilot's Assessment

In the official accident report, the pilot noted that a go-around "could have been made on very short final or immediately upon touch[down]," suggesting an alternative course of action that was not taken.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Jun 1996 Bellanca 8GCBC accident near Richland, WA?

A pilot landed fast on a 1,000-foot gravel strip. After hard braking, the tail rose. The aircraft then hit soft dirt and flipped onto its back.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Jun 1996 involved a Bellanca 8GCBC, registration N88401, at Richland, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to perform a go-around and his subsequent excessive use of the aircraft brakes. The short airstrip length and the pilot's excessive airspeed for the approach were related factors.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06105. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.