Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper approach airspeed and landing flare, which resulted in a bounced landing, and subsequent nose over.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane decided to land on the airstrip following several successful landings on less challenging back country airstrips. During the approach into the steep, upsloping landing area, the pilot carried more airspeed with the intention of allowing the flare and upslope to arrest the airplane’s forward momentum. The pilot stated that the airplane was too fast and that his flare was not adequate when he touched down further down the airstrip than anticipated and the airplane bounced. When the airplane contacted the ground again, he applied maximum braking as he approached an oncoming cliff at the end of the airstrip, and the airplane nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right-wing lift strut and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.