Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over After Landing on Runway 18 (N1573P)

Shearer, ID, US

On August 11, 2002, a Piper PA-22/20 (registration N1573P) was involved in an aviation accident near Shearer, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain the proper approach speed while on final approach to the 2000 foot airstrip, and his excessive application of brakes while attempting to stop the aircraft during the resultant longer than normal landing roll. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempted to land on a 2,000-foot runway, encountered a slight tailwind on final approach, and after touching down with excessive speed and braking, the aircraft nosed over while crossing a dip in the runway.

Incident Details

During a planned full-stop landing, the pilot first overflew the 2,000-foot runway to check wind conditions. Observing that the wind socks were hanging limp indicating no wind, the pilot initiated an approach to runway 18. On final approach, the pilot realized the aircraft was "coming in a little high" and performed a slip to lose altitude. Crossing the runway threshold, the ground speed was "higher than normal," necessitating excessive braking to stop before the runway's far end.

While braking, as the aircraft passed over a dip in the runway surface, it nosed over onto its back.

Pilot Account

According to the pilot, a slight tailwind seemed to develop during the final approach.

Runway Description

The approach to runway 18 is described as a "blind approach" that follows the narrow Selway River Canyon. The first 400 feet of the runway are "very rough." The Idaho Airport Facility Directory states that "inexperienced pilots" should use this field for emergencies only.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020827X01463. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.