Aircraft Nose Over After Striking Fence and Trees

Casualties unknown • New Ulm, TX, US

A pilot attempted an aborted landing on a grass airstrip that resulted in the aircraft striking a barbed wire fence and subsequently crashing into trees.

What happened

Upon arriving at the destination, the pilot approached a grass airstrip where the wind was recorded at 10 to 12 knots, blowing 90 degrees to the runway. During the descent, as the aircraft passed below the height of the surrounding trees, the pilot reported that the airplane floated more than anticipated.

Upon touchdown, the pilot encountered gopher mounds on the surface of the airstrip, which rendered braking ineffective. In an attempt to abort the landing, the pilot applied power. The pilot noted that the aircraft appeared to be in a downdraft and was hesitant to climb; however, having already committed to the maneuver, the pilot continued the application of power.

The aircraft then struck a barbed wire fence located at the end of the runway, causing the propeller to become entangled with the wire. As the aircraft continued to climb toward the height of the treetops, it lost power. The main landing gear subsequently struck trees, causing the airplane to nose over and come to rest in a brush pile. There were no injuries reported in the accident.

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to abort the landing after encountering uneven terrain on the grass airstrip led to the aircraft striking a barbed wire fence and subsequent loss of control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-02-26 Piper PA-18 accident near New Ulm, TX?

A pilot attempted an aborted landing on a grass airstrip that resulted in the aircraft striking a barbed wire fence and subsequently crashing into trees.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-02-26 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N8967C, operated by Leonard F. Firth, at New Ulm, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's attempt to abort the landing after encountering uneven terrain on the grass airstrip led to the aircraft striking a barbed wire fence and subsequent loss of control.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20491. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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