This March 2007 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Thorp T-18.
Location: San Diego.
Injuries: 2 Minor.
Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane was attempting a wheel landing. The airplane bounced and the pilot added power as it ballooned. It bounced again.
The pilot added full power in an attempt to do a go-around. The pilot then pushed the control stick forward. The propeller hit the runway and the airplane nosed over.
Probable cause: The pilot’s improper recovery from a bounced landing, resulting in a porpoise and a nose over.
