On 19 Apr 2016, a PIPER PA 18 105 SPECIA was involved in an aviation accident near Palmer, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to land on unsuitable terrain and incorrect brake application during the landing roll, which resulted in a nose over. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that the aircraft nosed over during the landing roll on a sandbar, resulting in substantial damage to the lift strut and empennage.
Incident Overview
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the landing roll on a sandbar, the aircraft nosed over. According to the pilot, the accident occurred as the surface transitioned from dry sand to wet sand. The pilot applied brakes at that point, and the airplane subsequently nosed over.
Aircraft Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the lift strut and the empennage. No other damage was reported.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot did not indicate any other contributing factors.
Contributing factors
PilotEffect on operationDecision related to conditionIncorrect use/operation