On March 21, 1992, a Piper PA-18 (registration N83367) operated by Deacon, Nelson H. was involved in an aviation accident near Shageluk, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The left ski retaining nut and its cotter pin were missing, which allowed the ski to partially slide off the axle in flight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A ski-equipped airplane nosed over after its left main landing gear broke during touchdown on a snow-covered frozen river. Investigators found the left ski retaining nut and cotter pin were missing, allowing the ski to shift in flight.
Event
A ski-equipped airplane was landing on a snow-covered frozen river. Upon touchdown, the left main landing gear broke at the axle, causing the airplane to nose over. The aircraft was fitted with skis for operations on snow and ice.
Investigation
Examination revealed that the left ski retaining nut and its cotter pin were missing. Without the retaining nut and cotter pin, the ski was not securely fastened to the axle. This allowed the ski to partially slide off the axle during flight. As a result, the landing gear was compromised and failed during touchdown.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that this was the second time the airplane had been sabotaged or vandalized. No further details about the previous incident were provided.
Probable cause
The left ski retaining nut and its cotter pin were missing, which allowed the ski to partially slide off the axle in flight.
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