N454HP

Substantial
None

BROWN JOSEPH SPORTSMAN GS-2S/N: 7336

Accident Details

Date
Tuesday, April 24, 2018
NTSB Number
GAA18CA240
Location
Kalispell, MT
Event ID
20180424X11751
Coordinates
47.846668, -113.416946
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s selection of an unsuitable snow-covered airstrip for landing, which resulted in a nose-over.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N454HP
Make
BROWN JOSEPH
Serial Number
7336
Engine Type
None
Year Built
2011
Model / ICAO
SPORTSMAN GS-2FK12
No. of Engines
0

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
STS INC
Address
2711 CENTERVILLE RD
Status
Deregistered
City
WILMINGTON
State / Zip Code
DE 19808-1660
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while en route, he decided to land to inspect the elevator trim. He added that he made multiple passes over a snow covered airstrip and believed the snow to be about 2-3" deep. During the landing roll, the airplane slowed and began to sink into the snow. The pilot attempted to go around, but the airplane nosed over.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions 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# GAA18CA240