Casualties unknown

Aircraft Cartwheels and Burns After Veering Off Runway on Landing (N9858D)

Bozeman, MT, US

On May 3, 1989, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N9858D) operated by Marlar, Charles H. was involved in an aviation accident near Bozeman, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER IN-FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT WHICH LED TO HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING THE LANDING. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS WERE: USE OF AN UNFAVORABLE RUNWAY, CROSSWIND, AND GUSTS. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During landing on Runway 30, a gust of wind lifted the left wing, causing the aircraft to veer right off the runway. It cartwheeled after the right wing struck the ground, then caught fire and was destroyed.

Event Details

According to the pilot, upon arriving in the airport area, he contacted the Flight Service Station (FSS) and was advised that Runway 30 (a 9,002-foot asphalt runway) was active and that the wind was from 210 degrees at 10 knots, gusting to 15 knots. The airport also had a turf runway (Runway 3/21) which was 3,400 feet long.

Pilot's Account

The pilot stated that during touchdown on Runway 30, a gust of wind lifted the left wing, causing the aircraft to veer off the right side of the runway. He applied power, but the right wing struck the ground, and the aircraft cartwheeled. Shortly after coming to rest, the aircraft began burning and was destroyed by fire.

Aftermath

The aircraft was destroyed by the post-impact fire. Further details about injuries or other consequences are not specified in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28290. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.