Single-engine aircraft nosed over during takeoff roll

Casualties unknown • Kotzebue, AK, US

A solo private pilot experienced a nose-over accident during a takeoff roll while attempting several touch-and-go landings.

What happened

A solo private pilot was conducting a flight intended for several touch-and-go landings. During the initial takeoff roll, the aircraft began to veer slightly to the left of the runway centerline. In an attempt to correct this deviation, the pilot applied right rudder; however, the aircraft continued to drift left. Upon applying additional pressure to the right rudder pedal, the right main wheel brake locked up, causing the aircraft to nose over.

Following the accident, the pilot discovered that he had been inadvertently depressing the brake pedal with the heel of his shoe during the takeoff roll. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. There were no injuries reported.

Probable cause

The pilot inadvertently applied the right main wheel brake with the heel of his shoe during the takeoff roll, causing the brake to lock and the aircraft to nose over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-07-23 Piper J5A accident near Kotzebue, AK?

A solo private pilot experienced a nose-over accident during a takeoff roll while attempting several touch-and-go landings.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-07-23 involved a Piper J5A, registration N2364, operated by Donald D. Knoblich, at Kotzebue, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot inadvertently applied the right main wheel brake with the heel of his shoe during the takeoff roll, causing the brake to lock and the aircraft to nose over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040831X01333. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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