On 3 Aug 2014, a PIPER PA20 - UNDESIGNAT UNDESIGNAT operated by Graham L Goad was involved in an aviation accident near Dayton, OR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to land on an unsuitable surface, which resulted in a nose over. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
While landing on a gravel beach, both main landing gear sank into a soft spot, causing the airplane to stop and nose over. The pilot had made three previous landings at unimproved sites without issues. Substantial damage occurred to the engine mount, front wing struts, rudder top, and wing ribs.
Event Details
The pilot had successfully completed three landings at unimproved landing sites on the morning before the accident. Later, while attempting to land on a gravel beach, the main landing gear touched down with the tail wheel still elevated above the terrain. Both main landing gear then sank into a soft spot in the gravel, causing the airplane to come to a stop and nose over.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the airplane. The engine mount, front wing struts, the top of the rudder, and wing ribs were bent.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.