On September 29, 1998, a Piper PA-12 (registration N2796M) was involved in an aviation accident near Tyonek, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while taxiing on an unimproved surface, which resulted in the left wheel dropping into a hole and the subsequent propeller strike. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot experienced a nose-over incident following an off-airport landing in crosswind conditions. The aircraft's left wheel dropped into a hole, causing the tail to rise and the propeller to strike the ground.
What happened
The private pilot executed a landing on an unimproved, off-airport site measuring approximately 900 feet in length. Conditions included a left crosswind component. Upon completing the touchdown roll, the pilot taxied toward the end of the available surface.
During this taxi phase, the left main wheel encountered a depression or hole in the terrain. Simultaneously, a wind gust lifted the tail section of the aircraft. In an attempt to maintain control and keep the tail down, the pilot applied additional engine power. This action resulted in the propeller striking the ground, causing the airplane to nose over.
The investigation
Examination of the event focused on the interaction between the terrain features and the aircraft's handling during the post-landing phase. The primary mechanical outcome was damage resulting from the propeller contact with the ground surface after the nose-over occurred.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while taxiing on an unimproved surface, which resulted in the left wheel dropping into a hole and the subsequent propeller strike.