No fatalities

20 Jul 2012: BELLANCA 7GCBC — Above Alaska Aviation — Talkeetna, AK

Talkeetna, AK, United States

On 20 Jul 2012, a BELLANCA 7GCBC operated by Above Alaska Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Talkeetna, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructor's and student pilot's excessive application of brakes during an aborted takeoff, which resulted in a noseover. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 14 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

A flight instructor and student pilot were practicing off-airport operations in a tailwheel airplane. During a takeoff from a gravel bar, the airplane failed to accelerate as expected. Upon aborting, excessive braking caused the airplane to nose over, resulting in substantial damage.

Incident Overview

A flight instructor and a pilot-rated student were conducting proficiency training in off-airport landings and takeoffs using a tailwheel-equipped airplane. Following a landing on a gravel bar, both occupants exited the aircraft and inspected the takeoff area on foot to assess surface conditions.

Takeoff and Abort

During the subsequent takeoff run, the airplane did not achieve the expected acceleration. As the aircraft approached the predetermined abort point, the flight instructor instructed the student to discontinue the takeoff. The instructor then assisted by simultaneously handling the controls with the student.

Braking and Nose-Over

In the attempt to bring the airplane to a stop, the brakes were applied with excessive force. This action caused the aircraft to pitch forward and nose over onto its back.

Damage

The accident resulted in substantial damage to the rudder and vertical stabilizer. No occupant injuries were reported.

Findings

The source does not provide a stated probable cause for the accident.

Contributing factors

Incorrect use/operationFlight crew