Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot-in-command's improper use of the brakes. The high vegetation was a factor in the accident.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot landed at the 1400 ft by 50 ft airport with full flaps. Upon landing the pilot applied full braking and the airplane veered to the right. The pilot was unable to arrest the right turn and the airplane flipped over when the wheels entered into soft high vegetation. The pilot reported that the airplane did not experience any malfunctions or failures before the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
On May 29, 1993, at 0945 hours Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 170B, N2962D, lost control during landing and exited the right side of runway 27 at Lake Wohlford Air Resort Airport, Escondido, California. The pilot was completing a visual flight rules personal flight. The airplane, registered to and operated by the pilot, sustained substantial damage. The certificated private pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The flight originated at Hesperia Airport, Hesperia, California, at 0900 hours. The pilot reported in the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1/2, that he landed within 400 feet from the threshold with full flaps (40 degrees) extended. He applied full brakes and the airplane veered to the right. He then applied left brake and rudder, but without success. The airplane exited the right side of the runway, and flipped over onto its back when the wheels sunk into the soft, 5-foot high vegetation. The pilot indicated that the airplane did not experience any mechanical malfunctions or failures preceding the accident. -