NTSB Factual Report

On February 24, 2004, about 0800 mountain standard time a Piper PA-20, N7321K, registered to and operated by the student pilot as a 14 CFR Part 91 local instructional flight, nosed over during the landing roll at Laurel Municipal Airport, Laurel, Montana. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The aircraft was substantially damaged and the student pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured.

In a written statement, the student pilot reported that after completing some flight training with his instructor, the student pilot prepared for his first solo flight to accomplish touch-and-go landings. The student stated that the first landing was without incident. During the second landing, the student reported that it was "rough" and he "powered then brought it in again." The landing was soft but the aircraft was sideways to runway heading. The student then reached down to release the flaps and, "As I did I began to wander." The student stated that he only meant to "touch the brakes, but apparently I applied too much." The aircraft then nosed over and came to rest inverted.

A Federal Aviation Administration Inspector from the Helena, Montana, Flight Standards District Office was in the area of the Laurel Airport at the time of the accident. The Inspector reported that evidence of skid marks and propeller strikes were noted on the runway surface. The wheels and brakes were inspected and no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction were found.

NTSB Probable Cause

The student pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during the landing roll. Inadequate remedial action was a factor.