Casualties unknown

Landing Gear Failure During Windshear Encounter on Short Final (N7488W)

Kenai, AK, US

On May 20, 1983, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N7488W) was involved in an aviation accident near Kenai, AK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot with limited experience encountered windshear during final approach at a remote field bordered by trees and a lake, resulting in the loss of the left main landing gear.

What happened

The aircraft was operating on a short final approach when it encountered a sudden windshear event. The pilot had accumulated only five hours of flight time in this specific type of aircraft and possessed limited experience landing at this particular location. The airfield lacked standard ground facilities, featuring only a windsock for weather indication. The terrain surrounding the field presented significant hazards, with trees bordering the southern side and a lake to the north.

The investigation

Post-accident examination revealed substantial structural damage to the airframe. The left main landing gear was torn off during the incident. Additionally, the left wing sustained damage consistent with the forces experienced during the event.

Findings

The pilot's lack of experience in both the specific aircraft type and the local airport environment contributed to the situation. The absence of advanced weather reporting facilities at the field limited situational awareness regarding wind conditions prior to the encounter.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 May 1983 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Kenai, AK?

A pilot with limited experience encountered windshear during final approach at a remote field bordered by trees and a lake, resulting in the loss of the left main landing gear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 May 1983 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N7488W, at Kenai, AK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42849. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.