Casualties unknown

Piper PA-18 Hard Landing Results in Runway Excursion and Damage (N4152N)

Columbia, CA, US

On August 26, 1989, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N4152N) operated by Francis M. Reps was involved in an aviation accident near Columbia, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER RECOVERY FROM A BOUNCED LANDING AND LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. 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, a Piper PA-18 experienced a hard landing and lost directional control. The pilot attempted a go-around but the aircraft veered off the runway and struck a boulder, damaging landing gear, propeller, and wings.

Incident Overview

A Piper PA-18 aircraft was involved in an accident during the landing phase. The pilot encountered a hard landing, which led to a loss of directional control.

Sequence of Events

After the hard landing, the pilot attempted to regain control by applying power and increasing left rudder input. When the situation did not improve, the pilot increased power further and initiated a go-around. Despite these efforts, directional control was not regained, and the aircraft veered to the right and departed the runway.

Damage

The aircraft exited the runway and struck a boulder. The impact resulted in damage to a landing gear strut, the propeller, and the wings.

Aircraft Information

The aircraft involved was a Piper PA-18. No further identification details were provided in the report.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29169. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.