On 5 Jul 2019, a Piper PA18 150 was involved in an aviation accident near Talkeetna, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper decision to land on rough, grassy terrain, 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.
A tailwheel airplane nosed over during an off-airport landing on rough grass terrain after striking a bump and bouncing. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and left wing lift strut.
Accident Details
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while landing off-airport on rough grass terrain, the airplane struck a "bump" and bounced. After touching down again, the pilot applied brakes with the tail up, attempting to stop prior to the top of a hill. The airplane continued and proceeded downhill with the tail up, while the pilot applied brakes and hit additional bumps. Subsequently, the airplane nosed over.
Damage Assessment
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and left wing lift strut.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Incorrect use/operationPilotEffect on operationDecision related to condition