NTSB Factual Report

On April 14, 2001, at 1114 hours Pacific daylight time, an experimental Beer ALB Special, N117V, was substantially damaged when the amateur built aircraft veered to the left and then to the right before nosing over during the landing roll at Sonoma County airport, Santa Rosa, California. The certificated private pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The local area personal flight was operated by the owner under 14 CFR Part 91 and departed about 1030. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed.

The pilot reported he lost directional control on landing, ground looped, and nosed over. He reported there were no mechanical malfunctions.

NTSB Probable Cause

The failure of the pilot to maintain directional control during landing roll.