Casualties unknown

1982-04-17: Piper PA-23 (N3371P) — Bill Chapman — Gardiner, MT

Gardiner, MT, US

On April 17, 1982, a Piper PA-23 (registration N3371P) operated by Bill Chapman was involved in an aviation accident near Gardiner, MT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During arrival, a pilot observed an aircraft stuck in mud on Runway 28. After coordinating with that pilot, they landed on the opposite runway. The landing was hard, and the left main gear collapsed after sinking into mud, causing substantial damage.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during the arrival phase, they noticed an aircraft immobilized in the mud on Runway 28. Following a brief radio exchange with the pilot of the stuck aircraft, a decision was made to land on the opposite runway.

Approach and Landing

The pilot stated that just before touchdown, the airspeed was slower than normal, and the touchdown itself was harder than usual. As the landing roll commenced, the left main landing gear sank into the mud and subsequently collapsed.

Damage

The accident resulted in damage to the left flap, both propellers, the right wing spar, and the right nacelle.

Airport Conditions

The airport elevation is 5,286 feet. There was no NOTAM on record addressing the condition of the runway surface.

Investigation

No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or operator were provided in the source. The investigation did not assign a probable cause.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X01948. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.