No fatalities

4 Jun 2013: SHELDRICK JOHN H RV-6 — Brookfield, WI

Brookfield, WI, United States

On 4 Jun 2013, a SHELDRICK JOHN H RV-6 was involved in an aviation accident near Brookfield, WI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain runway alignment and his failure to recognize that the airplane had drifted away from the runway prior to landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot executed a slip to lose altitude on approach but failed to notice a left turn, resulting in a nose-over after landing in a marsh. Substantial damage occurred to the right wing and tail.

Accident Details

According to the pilot's report, he was approaching an airport with the intention of landing on a grass runway. He noted that his approach was high and decided to introduce a slip maneuver to reduce altitude. During the slip, the airplane turned to the left, a deviation the pilot stated he did not notice. He continued the landing sequence, and the airplane subsequently nosed over.

Damage Assessment

The accident resulted in substantial damage to the airplane. Specifically, the right wing, the vertical stabilizer, and the rudder were affected. The pilot confirmed that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident.

Investigation Findings

Postaccident examination determined that the airplane came to rest in a marsh located approximately 400 yards north of the runway, which was oriented east-west. No further details about the airplane type, registration, or other conditions were provided in the source.

Contributing factors

Incorrect use/operationPilot