This September 2009 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: Aviat Husky. Injuries: None. Location: McArthur, Calif. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot flying was in the front seat of the tailwheel-equipped airplane. He had just completed two uneventful full stop landings at the private grass airstrip. The pilot in the rear seat then took the controls, and departed with the intention of performing a full stop landing.
According to the pilot in the rear seat the approach was normal until landing, when cattle ran from behind a line of trees and onto the runway. The cows were too close for the pilot to perform a go-around, so he slammed on the brakes. The airplane subsequently nosed over.
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain control during landing due to animals unexpectedly running onto the runway.
For more information: NTSB.gov. NTSB Identification: WPR09CA456
