Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's excessive braking during the landing roll, which resulted in the airplane nosing over onto its back. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's decision to land on a sandbar that he had not adequately inspected and his improper airspeed while on final approach.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
According to the pilot, while en route to his destination airport he decided to land on a sandbar in a nearby river. After touching down on the sandbar, the pilot realized that the available stopping distance was less than he had thought, so he applied hard braking in order to stop the airplane. During the braking sequence the airplane nosed over onto its back, resulting in substantial damage to the top portion of the rudder. The pilot said that he had not properly inspected the landing zone, and that his airspeed was too fast on final approach. He also stated that the airplane did not experience any mechanical malfunctions prior to the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
According to the pilot, while en route to his destination airport, he decided to land on a sandbar in a nearby river. After touching down on the sandbar, the pilot realized that the available stopping distance was less than he had thought, so he applied hard braking in order to stop the airplane. During the braking sequence the airplane nosed over onto its back, resulting in the top portion of the rudder being bent over. The pilot said that he had not properly inspected the landing zone, and that his airspeed was too fast on final. He also stated that the airplane did not experience any mechanical malfunctions.