Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The student pilot did not maintain directional control during the landing flare.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The student pilot stated that he was conducting solo practice takeoffs and landings in the airport traffic pattern in the tailwheel-equipped airplane. During the third landing flare, the airplane drifted to the left and bounced on the runway. The pilot applied full engine power to attempt a go-around, but realized that the airplane would not clear trees at the end of the runway. The pilot then removed engine power and elected to land in a swamp. Upon touchdown, the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing and vertical stabilizer. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector, who examined the airplane after the accident, reported there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA12CA064