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Runway Excursion and Nose-Over After Foot Slip on Rudder Pedal

Orangeburg, SC, United States

On June 13, 2013, a LUSCOMBE 8A operated by John P. Subbe was involved in an aviation accident near Orangeburg, SC. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inadvertent slippage of the pilot's foot off the right rudder pedal, resulting in a loss of directional control on the ground, and the pilot's overly aggressive application of wheel brakes, resulting in a nose over. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported his foot slipped off the right rudder pedal during landing, causing a swerve left. Aggressive brake application led to a nose-over, resulting in substantial damage to wings, fuselage, and vertical stabilizer.

Accident Summary

According to the pilot, during the landing roll on a runway, his foot slipped off the right rudder pedal, causing the airplane to swerve to the left. The pilot applied wheel brakes to slow the airplane and, concerned that he might enter a pond at the end of the runway, applied the brakes aggressively. The airplane subsequently nosed over.

Damage and Inspection

An inspector from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examined the airplane and confirmed substantial damage to the left and right wings, fuselage, and vertical stabilizer. The damage was consistent with the nose-over event.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The incident was attributed to the inadvertent foot slip from the rudder pedal during the landing rollout.

Contributing factors

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedIncorrect use/operationPilot

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Jun 2013 LUSCOMBE 8A accident near Orangeburg, SC?

A pilot reported his foot slipped off the right rudder pedal during landing, causing a swerve left. Aggressive brake application led to a nose-over, resulting in substantial damage to wings, fuselage, and vertical stabilizer.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Jun 2013 LUSCOMBE 8A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Jun 2013 involved a LUSCOMBE 8A, operated by John P. Subbe, at Orangeburg, SC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The inadvertent slippage of the pilot's foot off the right rudder pedal, resulting in a loss of directional control on the ground, and the pilot's overly aggressive application of wheel brakes, resulting in a nose over.

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