No fatalities

Experimental Homebuilt Noses Over During Landing at Remote Site

Palmer, AK, United States

On June 29, 2015, a JOHNSON GARY PA 18 SUPER CUB KIT operated by JOHNSON GARY D was involved in an aviation accident near Palmer, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's excessive use of brakes during the landing roll resulting in a nose over. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

An experimental homebuilt tailwheel airplane nosed over during landing at a remote off-airport strip after the pilot lost sight of the touchdown spot and landed long.

Incident Overview

A pilot flying an experimental homebuilt, tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a landing accident at a remote off-airport site. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to its wing struts during the event.

Sequence of Events

The pilot reported making two passes over the short landing strip before setting up for a third approach. During the final approach, he lost sight of his intended touchdown spot, resulting in the airplane touching down farther down the strip than anticipated. After landing, the pilot applied the brakes heavily. The airplane subsequently nosed over and came to rest inverted.

Aircraft and Damage

The airplane, an experimental homebuilt, was equipped with a tailwheel configuration. The only reported damage was substantial damage to the wing struts. No other damage to the aircraft was noted in the source.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Pilot

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Jun 2015 JOHNSON GARY PA 18 SUPER CUB KIT accident near Palmer, AK?

An experimental homebuilt tailwheel airplane nosed over during landing at a remote off-airport strip after the pilot lost sight of the touchdown spot and landed long.

Were there any fatalities in the 29 Jun 2015 JOHNSON GARY PA 18 SUPER CUB KIT accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Jun 2015 involved a JOHNSON GARY PA 18 SUPER CUB KIT, operated by JOHNSON GARY D, at Palmer, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's excessive use of brakes during the landing roll resulting in a nose over.