What happened
The aircraft encountered a critical incident during the landing phase on a sandbar located along the Yentna River. According to the pilot's account, he became preoccupied upon sighting a moose near the intended landing area. This distraction led to a failure to exercise adequate care in selecting an appropriate landing path.
Despite having approximately 2000 feet of suitable landing surface preceding the touchdown point, the aircraft struck a dirt bank. The impact with the embankment resulted in significant structural damage, specifically causing the left main landing gear to collapse.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's account and the physical evidence at the site. The pilot confirmed that his attention was diverted by wildlife near the runway threshold. The presence of ample clear runway prior to the point of impact indicated that the error occurred in timing or trajectory control rather than surface availability.
Findings
The primary contributing factor was the pilot's preoccupation with a moose near the landing area. This distraction compromised his ability to maintain proper situational awareness and select a safe landing path, despite adequate runway length being available.