On May 13, 2000, a Piper PA-12 (registration N7944H) operated by Scott Mccavit was involved in an aviation accident near Big Lake, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable taxi area, and excessive taxi speed. A factor associated with this accident was a ditch in the taxi area. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot reported taxiing fast on a gravel bar when the main wheels struck an unseen bump and ditch, causing the tundra tire-equipped airplane to nose over.
Incident Overview
A private pilot was taxiing an airplane on an off-airport gravel bar. According to the pilot's statement to the NTSB investigator-in-charge, he was "taxiing pretty fast" while concentrating on a gusty tailwind. During the taxi, the main wheels hit a large bump and ditch that the pilot had not seen. The airplane, equipped with tundra tires, nosed over as a result.
Pilot's Account
The pilot acknowledged that he should have watched the area in front of where he was taxiing. He also stated that he should have walked the takeoff area prior to attempting the takeoff. No other details about the aircraft, registration, or injuries were provided in the source.
Investigation
The NTSB is investigating the incident. No probable cause has been determined. The pilot's observations serve as the primary factual account of the events leading up to the nose-over.