On April 20, 1992, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N7077D) operated by Kastner, Kenneth D. was involved in an aviation accident near Big Lake, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. A FACTOR TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: A CROSSWIND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During the landing roll, the right wing lifted. Despite control inputs, the airplane traveled left, struck a runway light, exited the runway into a snow bank, and pivoted, contacting the ground.
Event Description
After touchdown during the landing roll, the pilot reported that the right wing suddenly lifted. Despite application of right aileron and rudder controls, the right wing remained elevated. The airplane continued its roll on the left main landing gear.
Pilot Actions
Recognizing a probable crosswind condition, the pilot applied full power. This allowed him to begin regaining control. However, before full control was achieved, the airplane traveled to the left of the runway. The left main landing gear then collided with a runway light. The pilot reduced power as the airplane traveled off the runway.
Final Sequence
The airplane collided with a snow bank, causing it to pivot to the left. Subsequently, the left wing made contact with the ground.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Apr 1992 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Big Lake, AK?
During the landing roll, the right wing lifted. Despite control inputs, the airplane traveled left, struck a runway light, exited the runway into a snow bank, and pivoted, contacting the ground.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Apr 1992 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N7077D, operated by Kastner, Kenneth D., at Big Lake, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. A FACTOR TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: A CROSSWIND.