Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot-in-command's improper use of the brakes. A factor was the failure to maintain directional control during landing rollout.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot-in-command, who was flying from the rear seat, stated that during rollout about 20 mph, following a normal landing, a gust of wind from the left caused the aircraft to turn left. Full right rudder was ineffective, and brakes were aggressively applied during which the aircraft nosed over. The pilot noted that the brakes on the aircraft were very sensitive.
Source record
Factual narrative
On March 30, 1995, approximately 1630 hours Pacific standard time (pst), a Fleet 7, N432K, was substantially damaged when the aircraft nosed over during landing roll at the Arlington Airport, Arlington, Washington. Both pilot-rated occupants were uninjured. Visual meteorological conditions existed at the time and no flight plan had been filed. The flight, which was reported as personal, was to have been operated under 14CFR91, and originated from Arlington. The pilot-in-command stated that he was flying from the rear seat. The pilot-rated owner was occupying the forward seat and was not endorsed for tailwheel operations. The pilot-in-command reported that while on rollout after landing on runway 16, and while rolling out about 20 mph, a gust of wind from the left caused the aircraft to turn left. He stated that full right rudder was ineffective. He then applied brakes and the aircraft nosed over. He noted that the brakes on the aircraft were very sensitive. -