Summary
On November 09, 2013, a Aviat Aircraft INC A 1B (N510MA) was involved in an accident near Lagrange, WY. The accident resulted in 1 minor injury. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this accident to be: The pilot's decision to land on a rough surface with hidden obstructions (holes).
The pilot reported that after touchdown on the grass/sod airstrip, the landing roll was normal for about 100 feet, but then the airplane came to an abrupt stop, like it had hit something. The airplane nosed over substantially damaging the rudder and wings.
The pilot and ranch personnel inspected the landing area and followed the airplane's tracks back toward the point of touchdown. They found a large hole, likely dug by an animal, approximately 24" deep, and in line with the airplane's right tire track. The pilot said he did not see the hole when flying downwind, nor on the base leg, or final approach.
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
This accident is documented in NTSB report WPR14CA047. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N510MA.
Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's decision to land on a rough surface with hidden obstructions (holes).
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot reported that after touchdown on the grass/sod airstrip, the landing roll was normal for about 100 feet, but then the airplane came to an abrupt stop, like it had hit something. The airplane nosed over substantially damaging the rudder and wings.
The pilot and ranch personnel inspected the landing area and followed the airplane's tracks back toward the point of touchdown. They found a large hole, likely dug by an animal, approximately 24" deep, and in line with the airplane's right tire track. The pilot said he did not see the hole when flying downwind, nor on the base leg, or final approach.
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# WPR14CA047