Casualties unknown

2006-05-29: Piper PA-12 (N2945M) — Robbie D. Speer — Wasilla, AK

Wasilla, AK, US

On May 29, 2006, a Piper PA-12 (registration N2945M) operated by Robbie D. Speer was involved in an aviation accident near Wasilla, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A quartering tailwind caused the aircraft to bounce during the flare, leading to an aborted landing attempt that resulted in a collision with snow and a subsequent 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A commercial pilot experienced a nose-over accident while attempting to land on a grass-covered terrain during a personal flight.

What happened

During a CFR Part 91 personal flight, a commercial certificated pilot attempted to land at a remote site consisting of a grass-covered area approximately 600 feet long and 70 feet wide. The terrain featured slightly rising ground, with patches of snow located along the left side of the landing area.

The pilot reported that wind conditions were calm during the approach. However, as the aircraft flared for touchdown, a quartering tailwind caused the plane to bounce slightly. In an attempt to abort the landing, the pilot applied full engine power. The aircraft subsequently settled back onto the ground and collided with the snowy area on the left side of the strip, resulting in a nose-over.

The aircraft sustained structural damage to the rudder, both wing lift struts, and the left wing. The pilot was not injured.

Probable cause

A quartering tailwind caused the aircraft to bounce during the flare, leading to an aborted landing attempt that resulted in a collision with snow and a subsequent nose-over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060621X00789. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.