Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during the landing roll at an off-airport site.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The private pilot reported he was landing a tailwheel airplane at an off-airport site during a Title 14, CFR Part 91 personal flight when the airplane encountered some bumps during the landing roll and nosed over. The pilot said there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane, and that he should have made a wheel landing or had some additional weight in the rear of the airplane to help keep the tail down. The airplane received substantial damage to the rudder.
Source record
Factual narrative
The private pilot reported he was landing a tailwheel airplane at an off-airport site during a Title 14, CFR Part 91 personal flight when the airplane encountered some bumps during the landing roll and nosed over. The pilot said there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane, and that he should have made a wheel landing or had some additional weight in the rear of the airplane to help keep the tail down. The airplane received substantial damage to the rudder.