Pilot Debrief

CHAMPION 7ECA near St. George, UT — 2026-02-04

Final reportWPR26LA096
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Date
2026-02-04
Location
St. George, UT, USA
Airport
SGU
Aircraft
CHAMPION 7ECA
Registration
N9976Y
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper application of brakes, which resulted in a nose over.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was conducting his third solo landing of the tailwheel-equipped airplane. Upon touchdown, he unintentionally applied pressure to the left heel-brake pedal, and the airplane turned to the left, which the pilot attempted to correct using rudder and brake controls. He reported that the tail struck the ground hard, and he then tried to slow the airplane using brakes, which resulted in the airplane tipping onto its nose. The rudder was substantially damaged during the accident sequence. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The airplane was equipped with heel brakes, and the pilot reported that he had never flown the airplane from the front seat prior to the accident flight. He further added that the rear seat, where he typically flew, provided greater braking authority and opined that this unfamiliar configuration also led him to apply excessive brake pressure.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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