The pilot reported that, during the approach, the Kitfox “caught a sudden down draft,” and the tailwheel hit the top of a 5-foot-tall fence near Weippe, Idaho.
Subsequently, the airplane nosed over.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and empennage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The automated weather observation system located about 20 nautical miles from the accident site reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 190° at 3 knots. The pilot reported that the sky condition was clear, visibility unlimited, temperature 45°F, and wind was from 270° between 8 and 10 knots. The pilot landed to the west.
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain a proper approach altitude, which resulted in a collision with a fence.
NTSB Identification: GAA18CA301
This May 2018 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.
