Casualties unknown

1984-10-19: Piper PA-12 (N78449) — Theodore River, AK

Theodore River, AK, US

On October 19, 1984, a Piper PA-12 (registration N78449) was involved in an aviation accident near Theodore River, 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

An aircraft crashed during a go-around attempt after landing on a gravel oil pad near Anchorage, Alaska. The pilot reported worn brakes and the main gear striking a stump.

Incident Overview

An aircraft crashed during a go-around attempt at Theodore River, located 35 miles southwest of Anchorage, Alaska. The accident occurred after the pilot landed on a gravel oil pad and realized the aircraft would not stop before going over the edge into a swamp.

Pilot Report

According to the pilot, after touching down on the gravel surface, he applied power to initiate a go-around. However, during the maneuver, the main landing gear struck a stump, causing the aircraft to settle into the mud. The pilot stated that he was aware the aircraft's brakes may not have been capable of stopping the aircraft due to their worn condition.

Sequence of Events

The pilot landed on the gravel oil pad and immediately recognized that the aircraft would not be able to stop before reaching the edge of the pad, which bordered a swamp. He then applied power to abort the landing and go around. As the aircraft attempted to become airborne again, the main gear contacted a stump, and the aircraft descended into the muddy terrain.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41253. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.