Casualties unknown

Landing Roll Incident: Wing Lift and Runway Excursion (N7077D)

Big Lake, AK, US

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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

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.

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.