Accident Overview
On September 5, 2019, at approximately 1540 Alaska daylight time, a Piper PA-18 Super Cub (registration N5057Y) equipped with tundra tires and a tailwheel sustained substantial damage after nosing over during landing at Birchwood Airport (BCV) in Chugiak, Alaska. The aircraft was operated by a flight instructor under 14 CFR Part 91, with a private pilot receiving instruction aboard. Neither occupant was injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The local instructional flight had originated from BCV.
Landing Sequence
The landing was conducted on runway 20L, a gravel-covered surface measuring 1,800 feet long and 50 feet wide. According to the pilot receiving instruction, the instructor had taken control of the airplane to demonstrate a landing. After touchdown and during the landing rollout, the aircraft nosed over, resulting in substantial damage to the right lift strut and rudder.
Pilot Statements
The flight instructor reported that he had assumed control to demonstrate the landing. During the rollout, after the tailwheel had contacted the ground, he noticed the tail beginning to rise. As the tail continued to lift, he asked the pilot receiving instruction, "what are you doing?" The student replied, "I don't know, what are you doing?" Both pilots stated that they were not applying pressure to the heel brake pedals at the time of the event.
Aircraft Inspection
An examination of the airplane conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) revealed no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have prevented normal operation. The aircraft was found to be in good working order aside from the damage incurred during the nose-over.
Weather Conditions
The closest weather reporting station, PABV, issued a METAR at 1556. Conditions included wind from 260 degrees at 3 knots, visibility of 10 statute miles, clear skies, temperature 63°F, dew point 46°F, and an altimeter setting of 30.20 inches of mercury.