Aircraft Excursion Following Right Wing Lift During Landing Roll

Casualties unknown • Big Lake, AK, US

An aircraft veered off the runway and struck a snow bank after the right wing lifted during the landing roll, resulting in a collision with runway lighting.

What happened

Following touchdown during the landing roll, the pilot reported that the right wing of the aircraft suddenly lifted. In an attempt to maintain directional control, the pilot applied right aileron and rudder inputs; however, the right wing remained elevated as the airplane continued to travel on the left main landing gear.

Recognizing the likely presence of a crosswind condition, the pilot applied full power to the engine. While this application of power allowed the pilot to begin regaining control of the aircraft, the plane drifted to the left of the runway before full control could be established. During the excursion, the left main landing gear collided with a runway light. As the aircraft continued off the runway, it struck a snow bank. The impact caused the airplane to pivot to the left, ultimately resulting in the left wing contacting the ground.

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to correct for a crosswind condition during the landing roll led to the aircraft traveling off the runway and striking a snow bank.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-04-20 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Big Lake, AK?

An aircraft veered off the runway and struck a snow bank after the right wing lifted during the landing roll, resulting in a collision with runway lighting.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-04-20 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 attempt to correct for a crosswind condition during the landing roll led to the aircraft traveling off the runway and striking a snow bank.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14360. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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