Casualties unknown

Precautionary Landing Ends with Wing Strike and Gear Collapse Due to Gusty Wind (N8034D)

Alexandria, MN, US

On April 16, 1983, a Piper PA-22 (registration N8034D) was involved in an aviation accident near Alexandria, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An exhaust stud came loose, which allowed exhaust gas to blow by the gasket. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot made a precautionary landing after hearing a noise, selecting a runway with unfavorable wind. A gust raised the left wing, causing the right wing tip to strike the ground and the right main gear to collapse at about 10 mph. Examination later revealed an exhaust stud had come loose.

Incident Overview

A pilot decided to perform a precautionary landing after hearing a noise or bang that was thought to originate from the muffler. The pilot selected a runway that had an unfavorable wind condition for landing.

Loss of Control

During the landing, control was lost when a gust of wind raised the left wing. As a result, the right wing tip struck the ground. At a speed of approximately 10 miles per hour, the right main landing gear collapsed.

Post-Incident Examination

An examination of the engine disclosed that an exhaust stud had come loose. This allowed exhaust gas to blow by the gasket.

Probable cause

An exhaust stud came loose, which allowed exhaust gas to blow by the gasket.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42630. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.