NTSB Factual Report

In a written report, the pilot stated that he was conducting a normal approach to landing on runway 24. He stated that the airplane's speed was fine, and that he was straight on the final approach. He noted that the airplane landed with the nose of the airplane up and directly over the runway centerline. As the main gear touched down on the runway, the airplane tipped to the left, the propeller struck the runway, and then the right wing tip contacted the runway surface. The pilot reported that the airplane came to rest near the center of the runway. Later inspection of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the firewall and left wing spar.

An aviation routine weather report (METAR) for Fullerton Municipal Airport (KFUL) was issued at 1653 PDT, about 7 minutes before the accident. It stated: winds from 230 degrees at 5 knots; visibility 8 miles; skies clear; temperature 23 degrees Celsius; dew point 13 degrees Celsius; altimeter 29.90 inches of mercury.

Under the supervision of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), maintenance personnel at Fullerton inspected the airplane. Inspection of the brake system operation revealed no discrepancies. Rudder operation and travel were normal, with or without the parking brake on. The trim setting for both the ailerons and the rudder were found in a near-neutral position. Inspectors drained both wing tanks, and found a difference of about 2 gallons of fuel between the two tanks. A second inspection of the airplane included the main landing gear wheel fairings. No anomalies were noted, and inspectors confirmed proper installation of the parts. The inspectors observed that the right brake assembly and operation had no discrepancies.

The FAA inspectors also noted that the airplane was recently purchased new, and had a total time of 60.2 hours.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during the landing touchdown, resulting in the wings contacting the runway surface and a propeller strike.