Aircraft Nosed Over During Off-Airport Landing

Casualties unknown • Talkeetna, AK, US

A commercial pilot experienced a nose-over accident while attempting to land an aircraft in a clear area during a local business flight.

What happened

A commercial certificated pilot was conducting a local area business flight intended to check on hunting clients. After failing to locate the clients, the pilot transitioned to aerial scouting for sheep.

The pilot decided to land the aircraft in a clear area previously used for similar landings. During the landing roll-out, the pilot encountered brush along the left side of the area that was taller than anticipated. The left wing of the aircraft collided with the vegetation. In an attempt to maintain a straight course, the pilot applied right brake pressure. This maneuver caused the airplane to decelerate and subsequently nose over.

The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller and the left wing lift strut. There were no injuries reported following the incident.

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to maintain directional control using right brake pressure after striking tall brush resulted in a deceleration that caused the aircraft to nose over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-08-12 Piper PA-18 accident near Talkeetna, AK?

A commercial pilot experienced a nose-over accident while attempting to land an aircraft in a clear area during a local business flight.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-08-12 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N7174K, operated by AK North Country Enterprises, at Talkeetna, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's attempt to maintain directional control using right brake pressure after striking tall brush resulted in a deceleration that caused the aircraft to nose over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19400. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…