No fatalities

21 Jan 2013: CESSNA 140 — Tucson, AZ

Tucson, AZ, United States

On 21 Jan 2013, a CESSNA 140 was involved in an aviation accident near Tucson, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll and his excessive application of brakes, which resulted in a noseover. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot returning to the departure airport experienced a tail wheel shimmy after touchdown. Attempting to exit the runway quickly, the pilot applied brakes, causing the airplane to lurch forward and come to rest inverted. Substantial damage occurred to the wings, fuselage, and rudder.

Sequence of Events

The pilot, having returned to the departure airport, completed a standard traffic pattern for the active runway. Following touchdown, the pilot endeavored to expedite the landing roll and vacate the runway at the first available turnoff. This action was intended to provide clearance for the aircraft that was landing behind. During this process, the tail wheel and rudder initiated a shimmy motion. In reaction, the pilot moved the control wheel forward. Subsequently, the pilot applied brake pressure with the aim of making the turnoff. This caused the airplane to lurch forward, and it ultimately came to rest in an inverted position on the runway.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot additionally reported that the accident may have been prevented if he increased his yearly flying time and flew with an instructor more frequently.

Damage

The wings, fuselage, and rudder were substantially damaged.

Contributing factors

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedIncorrect use/operation