Piper PA-12 N3484M accident near Spanaway, Washington

Probable cause

The pilot’s excessive application of brakes, which resulted in the airplane tipping forward onto its nose.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel airplane reported that she was on a stable approach to a narrow runway. She performed a wheel landing and applied braking to slow the airplane before lowering the tailwheel. During the landing roll she observed trees and a drop-off in elevation at end of the runway. The pilot became concerned that there was insufficient remaining stopping distance, and applied additional braking force. The airplane tipped forward and slid to a stop on its nose. Subsequently, the left wing struck the ground and sustained substantial damage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA142 for the full record.