Primary finding
Probable cause
the pilot's improper braking technique.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during landing the tail was still up when he applied the brakes. Although he tried to correct with full aft stick, the aircraft nosed over onto its back.
Source record
Factual narrative
On October 4, 1995, at 1830 central daylight time, a Donegan Benton Kitfox II, N20BD, registered to, and operated by a private owner, was substantially damaged during landing at Elm Creek Airpark, near Seguin, Texas. The airline transport rated pilot-in-command was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the Title 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. The flight originated at Elm Creek Airpark approximately one hour earlier. In the enclosed Pilot/Operator Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2), the pilot stated that, while landing, "the tail was still up and I touched the brakes. Although I tried to correct with full aft stick, the aircraft nosed over, struck the ground, and flipped onto its back." Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that both wing struts were bent, the fuselage was twisted behind the cabin, and the vertical stabilizer was damaged. -