Aircraft nosed over after exiting runway at Sky Harbor

Casualties unknown • Duluth, MN, US

An aircraft experienced a nose-over accident at Sky Harbor after exiting the runway onto soft sand during the landing rollout.

What happened

The flight originated from a nearby airport, Aitkin, with the intention of landing at Sky Harbor. During the landing rollout, the aircraft departed the runway and entered an area of sand. The pilot reported that while exiting the runway is not uncommon, the specific patch of sand encountered was particularly soft. As the front tires sank into the soft sand, the aircraft stopped instantly, causing the plane to nose over.

At the time of the event, a weather station located approximately 10 miles from the accident site recorded winds from 90 degrees at 9 knots. The pilot noted that crosswinds are a frequent challenge at Sky Harbor.

Probable cause

The aircraft exited the runway onto soft sand, causing the nose to pitch forward when the front tires became embedded.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-09-28 Stinson 108-3 accident near Duluth, MN?

An aircraft experienced a nose-over accident at Sky Harbor after exiting the runway onto soft sand during the landing rollout.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-09-28 involved a Stinson 108-3, registration N653C, at Duluth, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft exited the runway onto soft sand, causing the nose to pitch forward when the front tires became embedded.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20011108X02214. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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