Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper decision to land on rough, grassy terrain, which resulted in a nose-over.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while landing off-airport on rough grassy terrain, the airplane struck a "bump" and bounced. After touching down again, the pilot applied brakes with the tail up, attempting to stop the airplane before it reached the top of a hill. However, the airplane reached the top of the hill and then proceeded downhill with the tail up and hit additional bumps. Subsequently, the airplane nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and left wing lift strut. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while landing off-airport on rough grass terrain, the airplane struck a "bump" and bounced. After touching down again, the pilot applied brakes with the tail up, attempting to stop prior to the top of the hill. The airplane continued and proceed downhill with the tail up, applying brakes and hitting additional bumps. Subsequently, the airplane nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and left wing lift strut. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.