Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Excessive Braking Leading to Nose-Over on Gravel Bar Landing (N54247)

Nikiski, AK, US

On June 14, 1998, a Piper PA-18-160 (registration N54247) was involved in an aviation accident near Nikiski, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's excessive braking during landing, which resulted in the airplane nosing 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 certificated private pilot reported that excessive braking during landing on a remote gravel bar caused the airplane's tail to rise and the aircraft to nose over, resulting in substantial wing damage.

Landing Incident

A certificated private pilot experienced a landing mishap while touching down on a remote gravel bar. According to the pilot's report, upon touchdown, he applied excessive braking force. This action caused the airplane's tail to lift, and the aircraft subsequently nosed over.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated, "... it was just pilot error.... I just hit the brakes too hard." He indicated that no preimpact mechanical difficulties were present with the airplane.

Damage

Substantial damage was sustained to the wings and wing lift struts.

Investigation Notes

No other details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, or time of the incident were provided in the source.

Probable cause

The pilot's excessive braking during landing, which resulted in the airplane nosing over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10210. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.