Incident Overview
A pilot on a flight from Fairbanks to Kantishna, Alaska, decided to return to Fairbanks because the runway at Kantishna was muddy. While returning, the pilot elected to land at an abandoned mine strip for a comfort stop.
Hydraulic Failure
During the landing, a hydraulic line to the right brake failed, rendering that brake inoperative. The pilot reported that the line was leaking before takeoff and that he had tightened the fitting. He stated that the rigid line's flared end failed, permitting a rapid loss of pressure.
Evasive Maneuver and Damage
To avoid a head-on collision with an embankment, the pilot intentionally ground looped the aircraft. However, the tail section hit the embankment, causing substantial damage to the aircraft. No injuries were reported.