On August 11, 2007, a Piper PA-18 (registration N7051) was involved in an aviation accident near Mcgrath, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot stated that too much forward stick was applied, causing the aircraft to roll onto its nose. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An Alaska State Trooper pilot nosed over during landing on a rough gravel site after applying excessive forward elevator control, causing substantial damage to the aircraft.
Incident Summary
An Alaska State Trooper pilot was landing a tundra-tire equipped airplane on a 1,500-foot long rough gravel site. During the landing roll, the pilot reported applying the brakes and pushing the elevator control stick forward in an attempt to dampen the effects of the rough terrain. The aircraft rolled onto its nose, striking the propeller and spinner, and eventually came to rest inverted.
Pilot Statement
In a written statement to the National Transportation Safety Board, the pilot explained: "Too much forward stick was applied, causing the aircraft to roll onto its nose, striking the prop and spinner and eventually coming to rest upside-down." The pilot also stated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and right wing.
Probable cause
The pilot stated that too much forward stick was applied, causing the aircraft to roll onto its nose.