Pilot Debrief

Piper PA18 near Pullman, WA — 2019-03-09

Final reportGAA19CA159
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Date
2019-03-09
Location
Pullman, WA, USA
Aircraft
Piper PA18
Registration
N4100Z
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a nose-over.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the tailwheel- and ski-equipped airplane reported that, while landing off airport on a snow-covered ridge, the back of the right ski struck about a 6-inch-tall, firm snow drift. The right ski then pitched forward, the tip dug into the "crusty" snow, and the airplane nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, and lift strut. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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