Casualties unknown

1983-07-10: Cessna 305E (N68396) — Donald G. Ritter — Eielson Afb, AK

Eielson Afb, AK, US

On July 10, 1983, a Cessna 305E (registration N68396) operated by Donald G. Ritter was involved in an aviation accident near Eielson Afb, AK. 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 landing on a wide runway, an aircraft veered left after touchdown, causing the right main gear to collapse. Investigation found the tailwheel assembly was loose and incorrectly assembled.

Incident Overview

While landing on a wide runway designated 31, the pilot reported variable winds from 210 to 240 degrees at 2 knots, gusting to 8 knots. The aircraft touched down on the right side of the runway, and the pilot was angling the aircraft to the left to minimize the crosswind component. Shortly after touchdown, the aircraft veered to the left, and the right main landing gear collapsed.

Post-Accident Examination

An examination of the aircraft revealed that the tailwheel assembly was loose at its attachment point to the leaf spring. Additionally, the assembly had been installed incorrectly, resulting in stiff pivot operation. However, the pilot reported that the tailwheel would not jam to one side.

The collapsed right main gear was noted, but the source does not specify the extent of damage to other parts of the aircraft, nor does it mention any injuries or fatalities.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43554. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.