Amateur-built VANS RV7 N275PL accident near Polk City, Florida

Probable cause

A loss of control during landing due to the loose and uneven landing surface.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that his approach to landing was normal. He said that during the landing roll he felt nose gear “dig in” just before the nose gear collapsed, and the airplane nosed over inverted onto the runway, which resulted in substantial damage to the airframe. After exiting the airplane, the pilot observed that the grass/turf landing surface was loose and uneven. Inspection of the grass runway surface revealed the dirt was soft, and a ground scar was created by the nose wheel. A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed a fractured wheel pant and scarring on the lower right-wing skin. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies prior to landing.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA22LA165 for the full record.