Tailwheel Aircraft Nose-Over During Landing Roll

Casualties unknown • Emmett, ID, US

A tailwheel aircraft experienced a nose-over on the runway surface after encountering a right quartering tailwind during its second landing attempt.

What happened

The pilot was operating a tailwheel-equipped aircraft during a landing sequence involving variable and gusting winds. After completing one touch-and-go landing, the pilot was on the landing roll of a second approach. Shortly after touchdown, the aircraft encountered a right quartering tailwind that pushed the plane toward the left side of the runway.

In an effort to maintain directional control while bringing the aircraft to a stop under these tailwind conditions, the pilot applied differential braking. However, the level of brake application was not reduced sufficiently to compensate for the effects of the wind, resulting in the aircraft performing a nose-over on the runway surface.

The investigation

The pilot reported that there were no apparent malfunctions regarding the aircraft's brakes or flight controls. The pilot further noted that the nose-over likely would not have occurred had the tailwind not been present.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to adjust differential braking pressure sufficiently to counteract the effects of a right quartering tailwind, leading to a loss of directional control and a subsequent nose-over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-08-17 Cessna 185 accident near Emmett, ID?

A tailwheel aircraft experienced a nose-over on the runway surface after encountering a right quartering tailwind during its second landing attempt.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-08-17 involved a Cessna 185, registration N185LC, at Emmett, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot failed to adjust differential braking pressure sufficiently to counteract the effects of a right quartering tailwind, leading to a loss of directional control and a subsequent nose-over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030903X01443. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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