Probable cause
The pilot's incorrect pitch control during the landing roll in shifting wind conditions, which resulted in a nose-over.
NTSB analysis
During a telephone conversation with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigator-in-charge, the pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during a wheel landing, the wind shifted from a crosswind to a quartering tailwind. He further reported that he applied full aft elevator but lost control of the pitch when the wind shifted, and the airplane nosed over about 5 to 10 knots groundspeed.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and vertical stabilizer.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot did not submit the NTSB Form 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA025 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 21, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Gerlach, Nevada
- Nearest airport
- Black Rock City (88NV)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Champion 7GC
- N-number
- N7589E
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1958
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.