Aircraft and Flight Details
The aircraft, a Bellanca 8GCBC registered G-BGGD (manufactured in 1979), was being prepared for a private glider-towing flight on 23 July 2001. It was equipped with a single Lycoming O-360-C2E piston engine. The pilot, aged 58, held a Private Pilot's Licence with 275 total flying hours, including 3 hours on type. The flight was to depart from Nympsfield Gliding Club, Gloucestershire. Weather was good with light wind.
Sequence of Events
Before engine start, while ground handling the aircraft, the pilot reported that the right brake failed to release after the parking brake was selected off. The parking brake system is hydraulically actuated; pressing the brake pedal and cycling the parking brake button cleared the issue. The pilot then started the engine and taxied to the north side of the field, where brake operation was normal.
The aircraft was stopped on grass and the parking brake was applied for an engine power check. During the magneto checks, an excessive rpm drop was observed. After unsuccessfully attempting to clear the problem, the pilot decided to taxi to the glider launch point to consult the duty tug pilot. Upon releasing the parking brake and opening the throttle, the right wheel skidded across the grass instead of turning. The pilot attempted to remedy the stuck brake by short applications of the brake pedal while moving, concerned about obstructing the glider landing area, and also cycled the parking brake button, but without success.
During these attempts, the aircraft's tail rose and the propeller struck the ground. The aircraft remained with the tail elevated. The pilot turned off the switches and fuel, then vacated the aircraft uninjured.
Pilot's Observations
The pilot attributed the accident to his failure to stop and address the sticking brake despite his position on the landing area. He noted that the combination of forward motion, a high thrust line, drag from the stuck brake, and possibly a failure to maintain full back stick while focusing on the locked wheel caused the nose-over. He also considered that looking down at the wheel might have caused him to miss cues that the tail was rising.