Skykits Corp SAVANNAH VGW N472WM accident near Helena, Montana

Probable cause

The overload failure of the nosewheel fork retaining bolts during landing, which resulted in a nose-over.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the experimental, light sport aircraft reported that he was conducting touch-and-go landings and takeoffs at his private, turf-covered airstrip. During the seventh landing, the nosewheel folded back, the shaft dug into the ground, and the airplane nosed over, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage, wings, and vertical stabilizer. Two of the four 1/4-inch-diameter bolts holding the nosewheel fork to the shaft were found sheared. The bolts appeared to have sheared under tension, indicating that an overload failure had occurred. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14LA238 for the full record.