On August 19, 1990, a Stinson 108 (registration N9462K) operated by Beyers, David W. was involved in an aviation accident near Cold Foot, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the emergency approach, which resulted in a stall and subsequent crash. Contributing factors included the initial landing gear damage from striking a large rubber tire on the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced substantial landing gear damage after striking a large rubber tire on a mining strip runway. The pilot attempted an emergency landing at Coldfoot but stalled the aircraft on short final, resulting in a crash at the approach end of the runway.
What happened
During takeoff from a mining strip, the airplane struck a large rubber tire located at the end of the runway. This impact caused substantial damage to the landing gear. The pilot elected to fly to Coldfoot for an emergency landing.
During the approach to Coldfoot and on short final, the pilot stalled the airplane. The aircraft then crashed on the approach end of the runway.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical condition of the aircraft following the tire strike and the circumstances surrounding the stall during the emergency approach.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the emergency approach, which resulted in a stall and subsequent crash. Contributing factors included the initial landing gear damage from striking a large rubber tire on the runway.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 19 Aug 1990 Stinson 108 accident near Cold Foot, AK?
A pilot experienced substantial landing gear damage after striking a large rubber tire on a mining strip runway. The pilot attempted an emergency landing at Coldfoot but stalled the aircraft on short final, resulting in a crash at the approach end of the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Aug 1990 involved a Stinson 108, registration N9462K, operated by Beyers, David W., at Cold Foot, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the emergency approach, which resulted in a stall and subsequent crash. Contributing factors included the initial landing gear damage from striking a large rubber tire on the runway.
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