On June 15, 2002, a Piper PA-12 (registration N4131M) was involved in an aviation accident near Kenai, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and the excessive use of the airplane's brakes, which resulted in a nose over. A contributing factor to the accident was a wind gust. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A solo private pilot reported that his tailwheel-equipped airplane nosed over during landing on a remote river sandbar after he applied excessive brake pressure, resulting in substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer.
Accident Summary
A solo private pilot reported an accident involving his tailwheel-equipped airplane while landing on a remote river sandbar. The pilot stated that just after touchdown, a gust of wind from the left pushed the airplane to the right. In an attempt to realign the airplane, he applied full left rudder and heavy braking action. As the airplane neared the end of the 900-foot-long landing site, it nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer.
Pilot Statement
The pilot noted that he applied too much brake pressure in an effort to stop the airplane before reaching the end of the site. He also stated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.
Damage
The airplane received substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer. The extent of damage to other components was not specified in the report.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 15 Jun 2002 Piper PA-12 accident near Kenai, AK?
A solo private pilot reported that his tailwheel-equipped airplane nosed over during landing on a remote river sandbar after he applied excessive brake pressure, resulting in substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer.
Were there any fatalities in the 15 Jun 2002 Piper PA-12 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Jun 2002 involved a Piper PA-12, registration N4131M, at Kenai, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and the excessive use of the airplane's brakes, which resulted in a nose over. A contributing factor to the accident was a wind gust.
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