On 31 Mar 2019, a Piper PA 16 No Series was involved in an aviation accident near Afton, WY. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper landing flare, which resulted in a bounced landing and loss of directional control and the airplane’s subsequent impact with a snowbank and nose-over during an attempted go-around. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A tailwheel airplane nosed over after the pilot initiated a go-around during landing on runway 34. The main gear struck a snow bank, causing substantial wing damage. Wind was calm.
Accident Details
The accident occurred when a tailwheel-equipped airplane landed on runway 34. During the landing roll, the airplane bounced twice and began to veer left. The pilot immediately applied power to execute a go-around, but the main landing gear struck a snow bank. The impact caused the airplane to nose over.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left and right wings.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Weather
At the time of the accident, the automated weather reporting station reported calm wind conditions.
Contributing factors
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedLanding flare — Not attained/maintainedPilotEffect on operation