No fatalities

26 Jul 2018: Cessna 140 — Healdsburg, CA

Healdsburg, CA, United States

On 26 Jul 2018, a Cessna 140 Undesignat was involved in an aviation accident near Healdsburg, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper 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.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

During the third landing roll of a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the tailwheel settled and the airplane nosed over, resulting in substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and rudder. The pilot was uncertain about brake application.

Accident Description

A tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a nose-over during the landing roll of its third touch-and-go landing. According to the pilot, after the tailwheel settled on the runway, the airplane nosed over. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and rudder.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported having performed two previous touch-and-go takeoffs and landings without incident. Regarding the third landing, he stated, "I am not certain whether I accidentally stepped on the brakes or the brakes seized." The pilot did not report any other mechanical issues or anomalies during the flight.

Post-Accident Examination

A post-accident examination of the airplane was conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration Inspector. The examination revealed no issues with the brake system. No other mechanical discrepancies were noted in the inspection report.

Contributing factors

PilotIncorrect use/operation