Accident Details
A private pilot conducting a flight under Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91, was landing at an off-airport site with the intention of searching for a suitable hunting location. Prior to landing, the pilot performed multiple low-altitude passes over the intended landing area to evaluate its condition.
During the landing rollout, the pilot taxied the airplane toward the edge of the landing area. As the aircraft moved, its tires encountered a hole in the terrain. The wheels sank into the depression, causing the airplane to pitch forward and nose over. The pilot reported that the airplane had experienced no mechanical malfunctions or failures before the accident.
Damage Assessment
An investigator from the National Transportation Safety Board examined the aircraft at the accident site. The inspection revealed substantial damage to the right wing, left wing, and left wing forward spar. No other damage was noted in the report.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that he had surveyed the landing area from the air multiple times before committing to the landing. He did not report any preexisting conditions or anomalies with the aircraft’s systems.
Investigation Findings
The investigation was limited to the on-scene examination by the NTSB investigator-in-charge. No further analysis or causal determination was provided in the source material.