Incident Overview
An aircraft landed off the left side of Runway 03 at Ft. Yukon Airport and collided with a Visual Approach Slope Indicator (VASI) system. The pilot had overflown the airport prior to the approach and observed personnel working on Runway 21.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that he flew a downwind pattern for Runway 03. While on final approach to Runway 03, he observed an 'X' marking on the end of the runway. The pilot attempted to land off the left side of the runway instead of using the runway surface. He stated that he believed the 'X' indicated he could not land on the right side of the runway but could land on the left side. During this maneuver, the aircraft collided with the VASI.
Regulatory Context
Federal Aviation Regulations define an 'X' displayed on a runway end as a signal that the runway is closed and is not to be used for takeoffs or landings.