Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA18CA522

Rexburg, ID, USA

Aircraft #1

N4077M

Piper PA 12

Analysis

The pilot reported that, during touchdown, the tailwheel-equipped airplane bounced and veered right. He overcorrected with left rudder, and the airplane veered left, so he applied right rudder, but the airplane continued left. He then applied full power to go around, but the airplane departed the runway, struck a perimeter fence, and nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The pilot reported that, during touchdown, the tailwheel equipped airplane bounced and veered right. He overcorrected with left rudder and the airplane veered left, so he applied right rudder, but the airplane continued left. He then applied full power to go around, but the airplane departed the runway, struck a perimeter fence, and nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The automated weather observation station located on the airport reported that, about five minutes after the accident, the wind was 170º at 6 knots. The pilot landed the airplane on runway 17. The pilot did not submit the National Transportation Safety Board Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report Form 6120.1, as requested.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improper landing flare, which resulted in the airplane bouncing and a subsequent loss of directional control, a runway excursion, and impact with a fence.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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