Incident Overview
On 11 May 2003, at approximately 1520 hours UTC, a Piper PA-18-150 (Modified) Super Cub, registration G-BJCI, sustained a propeller strike during taxi operations at Milfield Airfield near Wooler, Northumberland. The aircraft, which had just completed a glider-towing flight, was being taxied downwind back toward the glider launch point. The sole occupant, the pilot, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had 558 hours total flying experience, with 246 hours on type. The weather conditions at the time included wind from an unspecified direction at 15–20 knots, gusting to 30 knots.
Sequence of Events
After a normal landing, the pilot taxied directly downwind. In accordance with his normal procedure for taxiing in strong winds, he selected full flap and held the elevator in the neutral position. As the aircraft slowed to a stop before turning to line up in front of the next glider, the tail lifted off the ground, and the aircraft slewed through 90 degrees. The pilot attempted to correct by pulling rearwards on the control column, but this had no effect. As the tail continued to lift, the propeller struck the ground before the engine could be stopped.
Damage and Injuries
The incident resulted in a bent propeller and the engine required shock load testing. The pilot reported no injuries.
Investigation Findings
The pilot submitted an Aircraft Accident Report Form detailing the event. The wind conditions during taxi were reported as 15–20 knots gusting to 30 knots. No probable cause was determined by the investigation.