Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over After Aborted Takeoff During Touch-and-Go Practice (N2663A)

Pine Valley, CA, US

On June 19, 2005, a Piper PA-18-135 (registration N2663A) operated by Thomas M. Towne was involved in an aviation accident near Pine Valley, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's excessive brake application during an aborted takeoff, which caused the airplane to nose 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot aborted a takeoff during touch-and-go practice in a pasture; excessive braking caused the airplane to nose over. No mechanical issues were reported.

Incident Overview

A small airplane nosed over after an aborted takeoff in a pasture, following a touch-and-go landing. The pilot had been practicing touch-and-go landings on a downhill grass-covered field.

Sequence of Events

The initial landing was described as uneventful. However, during the subsequent takeoff roll, as the airplane neared the end of the field, the pilot decided to abort the takeoff. According to the pilot, his brake application was excessive, causing the airplane to nose over.

Mechanical Condition

No mechanical malfunctions were experienced with the airplane. The incident was solely attributed to the pilot's braking technique.

Conclusion

The airplane nosed over due to excessive braking during an aborted takeoff. No other factors were involved.

Probable cause

The pilot's excessive brake application during an aborted takeoff, which caused the airplane to nose over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050708X00964. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.