L GOLDNER ZENITH 701 near Milford, UT — 2013-10-17

Probable cause

The pilot's improper decision to execute a precautionary landing to unsuitable terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that while en route on the cross-country flight he noticed that the cylinder head temperature was rising. Suspecting a water leak through the cooling hose, he surveyed the remote area and made a precautionary landing on what appeared to be suitable terrain. After touchdown and during the landing roll the airplane encountered uneven ground, which resulted in the collapse of the nose landing gear and substantial damage to the airplane's right wing and empennage. In a written statement, the pilot reported that he should not have landed until he had located better terrain. The pilot reported no preimpact loss of engine power.

NTSB coding

• Landing gear collapse · Landing-landing roll
• Decision Making / Judgment

Evidence available

• Photos
• 4 docket documents

Docket documents4

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Photo 1 - damage to front of airplanephotos
• Photo 2 - damage to empennage of airplanephotos
• Photo 3 - damage to right wing of airplanephotos

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