2000-09-15: Piper PA-18 — Big Lake, AK

Casualties unknown • Big Lake, AK, US

Probable cause

The pilot's application of excessive braking. A factor in the accident was the installation of boosted (oversize) type master brake cylinders.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The private certificated pilot was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane on a gravel bar. The pilot reported that his airplane is equipped with 30-inch tundra tires. He recently installed extended landing gear to add distance between the bottom arc of the propeller and the ground. He also added new brake cylinders equipped with a 'booster' cylinder. During the landing roll, the pilot said he applied the brakes too hard, and the airplane nosed over. The airplane received damage to the rudder, and the right wing lift strut.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-09-15 Piper PA-18 accident near Big Lake, AK?

The private certificated pilot was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane on a gravel bar. The pilot reported that his airplane is equipped with 30-inch tundra tires. He recently installed extended landing gear to add distance between the bottom arc of the propeller and the ground. He also added new brake cylinders…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-09-15 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N6760B, at Big Lake, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's application of excessive braking. A factor in the accident was the installation of boosted (oversize) type master brake cylinders.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21897. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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