Biplane accident during landing approach

No fatalities • Fort Myers-Page Field, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A pilot experienced a series of bounces during the landing phase of a biplane flight, resulting in a cartwheel accident that left the aircraft inverted.

What happened

While performing an approach in a tailwheel-equipped biplane, the pilot maintained an altitude of approximately 20 to 30 feet above the runway surface until reaching the midfield point. During the landing sequence, the aircraft experienced a series of three distinct bounces. After the third touchdown, the aircraft remained in a nose-high attitude and began to veer toward the right side of the runway. This movement caused the right wing to dip, leading the aircraft to cartwheel across the surface before coming to a final rest in an inverted position.

At the time of the accident, the pilot possessed 60 hours of flight experience specifically in this type of aircraft. Prior to the event, the previous owner had noted that landing this particular model requires significant patience to achieve a smooth touchdown. Furthermore, it was noted that attempting landings on asphalt surfaces with limited experience could lead to repeated bumping, and that premature rearward movement of the control stick could induce ballooning or porpoising effects.

Probable cause

The pilot's lack of experience with the specific handling characteristics of the tailwheel biplane led to a series of bounces and an improper touchdown attitude.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2009-11-14 Travel Air 4000 accident near Fort Myers-Page Field, United States of America?

A pilot experienced a series of bounces during the landing phase of a biplane flight, resulting in a cartwheel accident that left the aircraft inverted.

Were there any fatalities in the 2009-11-14 Travel Air 4000 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2009-11-14 involved a Travel Air 4000, registration N3823, operated by Low & Slow Aviation Ventures, at Fort Myers-Page Field, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's lack of experience with the specific handling characteristics of the tailwheel biplane led to a series of bounces and an improper touchdown attitude.

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