No fatalities

Tailwheel Training Flight Nose Over During Wheel Landing Practice (N8XJ)

Anchorage, AK, US

On August 5, 2005, an Aviat A-1 (registration N8XJ) was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot applied the brakes too heavily during wheel landing practice, resulting in the airplane 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

During tailwheel instruction, a student pilot applied brakes excessively, causing the airplane to nose over. Damage included wing leading edges, rudder, and lift struts. No mechanical issues were reported.

Accident Overview

The owner of the accident airplane reported that a certificated flight instructor was conducting a Title 14, CFR Part 91 instructional flight. The flight involved tailwheel instruction and practice of wheel landings. During the landing, the dual student applied the brakes too heavily, which caused the airplane to nose over.

Damage Assessment

The owner stated that the instructor reported damage to the wing leading edges, rudder, and lift struts. No other damage details were provided.

Mechanical Condition

The owner indicated that there were no known mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to the accident.

Probable cause

The student pilot applied the brakes too heavily during wheel landing practice, resulting in the airplane nosing over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Aug 2005 Aviat A-1 accident near Anchorage, AK?

During tailwheel instruction, a student pilot applied brakes excessively, causing the airplane to nose over. Damage included wing leading edges, rudder, and lift struts. No mechanical issues were reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 5 Aug 2005 Aviat A-1 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Aug 2005 involved an Aviat A-1, registration N8XJ, at Anchorage, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot applied the brakes too heavily during wheel landing practice, resulting in the airplane nosing over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20051012X01626. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.