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Student Pilot's Excessive Brake Application Leads to Nose-Over During First Solo Landing (N7321K)

Laurel, MT, US

On February 24, 2004, a Piper PA-20 (registration N7321K) was involved in an aviation accident near Laurel, MT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's excessive application of the brakes during landing, resulting in the aircraft nosing over. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot on his first solo flight experienced a rough second landing, applied too much brake while releasing flaps, causing the aircraft to nose over and come to rest inverted. No mechanical failure found.

The Flight

According to the student pilot's report, after completing flight training with his instructor, he prepared for his first solo flight to perform touch-and-go landings. The first landing was uneventful.

The Incident

During the second landing, the student described the touchdown as "rough." He then "powered then brought it in again," resulting in a soft landing but with the aircraft sideways to the runway heading. While reaching down to release the flaps, the student stated, "As I did I began to wander." Intending only to "touch the brakes," he reported that "apparently I applied too much." The aircraft subsequently nosed over and came to rest inverted.

Post-Accident Inspection

An inspection of the wheels and brakes conducted after the accident found no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction.

Probable cause

The student pilot's excessive application of the brakes during landing, resulting in the aircraft nosing over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Feb 2004 Piper PA-20 accident near Laurel, MT?

A student pilot on his first solo flight experienced a rough second landing, applied too much brake while releasing flaps, causing the aircraft to nose over and come to rest inverted. No mechanical failure found.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Feb 2004 Piper PA-20 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Feb 2004 involved a Piper PA-20, registration N7321K, at Laurel, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's excessive application of the brakes during landing, resulting in the aircraft nosing over.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040225X00236. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.