Tailwheel Aircraft Nosed Over During Landing Roll

Casualties unknown • Soldotna, AK, US

A pilot experienced a loss of directional control during the landing roll on a hard surface runway, resulting in a wing strike and aircraft nosed over.

What happened

During the landing roll on a hard surface runway, a tailwheel equipped airplane outfitted with 26-inch tundra tires began to veer toward the left. In an attempt to maintain control, the pilot applied right rudder and right brake; however, the aircraft continued its leftward veer. This maneuver resulted in the right wing striking the ground, which subsequently caused the airplane to nose over.

At the time of the accident, the airport's automated weather observation system recorded wind conditions of 010 degrees at 7 knots. However, the pilot reported that wind conditions were highly variable, ranging from 030 to 300 degrees, with gusts reaching up to 15 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-04-21 Cessna 180K accident near Soldotna, AK?

A pilot experienced a loss of directional control during the landing roll on a hard surface runway, resulting in a wing strike and aircraft nosed over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-04-21 involved a Cessna 180K, registration N64337, at Soldotna, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inadequate compensation for cross conditions and failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. A factor relating to the accident was: the variable/gusty/crosswind condition.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07650. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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