Nose-over accident after landing rollout on wet runway

Casualties unknown • Trout Lake, WA, US

An aircraft veered right during landing rollout on a wet runway, failed to respond to rudder and braking inputs, and nose-overed after the right wheel dug into the ground.

What happened

The aircraft touched down on a wet runway and immediately began to veer slightly to the right. During the landing rollout, the pilot attempted to correct the deviation using left rudder and left wheel braking, but the aircraft did not respond as expected. Skid marks extending 200 feet in length confirmed that the left brake was functioning at least partially.

As the aircraft continued its uncontrolled path, the pilot applied heavy braking. Despite these efforts, the right wheel plowed into the ground, causing the aircraft to nose over. A post-accident inspection of the airplane revealed no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction that would have contributed to the event.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-10-18 Cessna 185 accident near Trout Lake, WA?

An aircraft veered right during landing rollout on a wet runway, failed to respond to rudder and braking inputs, and nose-overed after the right wheel dug into the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-10-18 involved a Cessna 185, registration N1841R, at Trout Lake, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the pilot to maintain directional control of the aircraft during the landing roll. A factor was the wet runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031103X01853. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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