Piper PA-18 Collides with ATV on Runway at Unattended Airport

Casualties unknown • Levelock, AK, US

A Piper PA-18 struck three children riding an all-terrain vehicle that pulled onto the runway during landing roll at an unattended airport. The pilot could not avoid the collision.

What happened

The accident occurred while the pilot of a Piper PA-18 was completing his landing roll at an unattended airport. As the aircraft was slowing down on the runway, three children riding an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) pulled onto the active runway from the side. The pilot attempted to avoid the vehicle but was unable to stop in time before colliding with it. The impact struck the right side of the airplane.

The investigation

Examination of the site revealed significant evidence of unauthorized vehicle access to the airfield. Tracks alongside the runways indicated that various vehicles used the area as a matter of convenience. These tracks were not level or straight, suggesting frequent off-road driving near the paved surface. Many of the tracks indicated that vehicles frequently pulled up onto the runways, which offered a smooth surfaced path for travel.

Findings

The investigation highlighted environmental factors that contributed to the collision. There were numerous areas outside the runway edges where an individual's view of the runway would be obstructed. This lack of visibility likely prevented the ATV riders from seeing the approaching aircraft in time to clear the runway. The combination of unattended airport infrastructure, unauthorized vehicle access, and obstructed sightlines created a hazardous situation that resulted in the accident.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to see and avoid an all-terrain vehicle on the runway, which was facilitated by the unattended nature of the airport and obstructed views from areas outside the runway edges.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-07-26 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Levelock, AK?

A Piper PA-18 struck three children riding an all-terrain vehicle that pulled onto the runway during landing roll at an unattended airport. The pilot could not avoid the collision.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-07-26 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N6978B, operated by Jerold Lee Vantrease, at Levelock, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to see and avoid an all-terrain vehicle on the runway, which was facilitated by the unattended nature of the airport and obstructed views from areas outside the runway edges.

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