16 Apr 2013: WING HAROLD KITFOX II — Dennis E. Fitch

16 Apr 2013: WING HAROLD KITFOX II — Dennis E. Fitch

No fatalities • Blaine, MN, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's improper touchdown and subsequent failure to maintain control of the airplane during the landing roll. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s lack of experience in tailwheel-equipped airplanes.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

On the pilot's first landing, the tail wheel touched down first and the airplane bounced on the main gear, then rotated to the right. The pilot applied left rudder and added power in an attempt to go-around. The right main gear and right wing tip struck the ground, and the airplane nosed down, shearing off the propeller before coming to rest on the nose. The pilot said there was nothing mechanically wrong with the airplane. Postaccident examination revealed the right wing spar, outboard of the lift strut, and the ribs were broken.

Contributing factors

  • cause Performance/control parameters — Not attained/maintained
  • cause Pilot
  • factor Pilot

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 260/06kt, vis 10sm

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