Pilot Debrief

HARMON ROCKET II near Mesquite, NV — 2024-01-12

Final reportWPR24LA075
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Date
2024-01-12
Location
Mesquite, NV, USA
Airport
67L
Aircraft
HARMON ROCKET II
Registration
N630L
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s loss of control on the landing roll, which led to the airplane coming to rest inverted.

NTSB narrative

The day before the accident the airplane underwent maintenance on the brake system. The mechanic stated that after completing the maintenance, he advised the pilot to use caution during the first few brake applications to allow the system to wear in and recommended that the pilot perform at least three full stop landings. On the day of the accident, the mechanic reported that he and the pilot ate lunch together, after which he observed the pilot perform several brake checks before departing. A witness reported observing the tailwheel-equipped airplane on the landing roll. The airplane was to the right of the centerline and continued to veer right while the ground speed slowed. The airplane then pitched forward, and the propeller contacted the runway surface. The airplane continued to slide forward and exited the right side of the runway before it nosed over and came to rest inverted with the pilot's head against the pavement. Following the impact, first responders found the pilot in cardiac arrest after a prolonged extrication. He was resuscitated and was admitted to a hospital with serious injuries, including neurological injury that made him unable to communicate any history of the event. No significant pre-impact medical event was specifically identified during his hospitalization.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Video
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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