Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during the landing roll.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported he was practicing takeoff and landings in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, which required a correction for a light and variable southerly wind. The pilot stated that after touchdown, during the landing roll, the tail of the airplane rose up, but there was not enough elevator authority to lower the tail, and the airplane subsequently nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings, lift struts, rudder, and vertical stabilizer. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported he was practicing takeoff and landings in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, which required a correction for a light and variable southerly wind. The pilot stated that after touchdown, during the landing roll, the tail of the airplane rose up, but there was not enough elevator authority to lower the tail, and the airplane subsequently nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings, lift struts, rudder, and vertical stabilizer. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.