Casualties unknown

Glider Tow Aircraft Noses Over During Landing (N4785F)

Boulder, CO, US

On July 1, 1999, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N4785F) was involved in an aviation accident near Boulder, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during landing roll. 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

After releasing a glider, a pilot attempted to land, but the tail rose and elevator was unresponsive. The aircraft nosed over after the spinner hit the pavement. Post-accident inspection found no elevator control issues.

Accident Overview

A pilot departed from an airport while towing a glider. Following the glider's release, she returned to the airport for landing. She executed what she described as a smooth wheel landing with no bounces, and the aircraft rolled straight and smoothly on its two main wheels.

Landing Sequence

During the landing roll, the pilot felt the tail of the airplane begin to rise. She pulled back on the control stick but stated that she was unable to get a response from the elevator. The aircraft continued rolling forward until the spinner impacted the pavement, after which the airplane nosed over onto its back.

Pilot's Account

In a telephone interview shortly after the accident, the pilot stated that the aircraft's wheels touched down twice on the runway prior to the third actual touchdown. She reported that the wind was calm during the landing.

Post-Accident Inspection

Following the accident, a functional test of the elevator control system was performed. The elevator operated effectively, and no abnormalities or discrepancies were observed.

Findings

The investigation revealed no preexisting mechanical issues with the elevator control system. The cause of the elevator's unresponsiveness during the landing roll remains undetermined based on the available information.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19240. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.