Piper PA18
Pullman, WA — March 9, 2019
Event Information
| Date | March 9, 2019 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA19CA159 |
| Event ID | 20190309X72957 |
| Location | Pullman, WA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 46.73583, -117.08806 |
| Highest Injury | MINR |
Aircraft
| Make | Piper |
| Model | PA18 |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 1 |
| None | 0 |
| Total Injured | 1 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a nose-over.
Full Narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel, ski-equipped airplane reported that, while landing off airport, on a snow-covered ridge, the back of the right ski struck about a 6" 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.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.