Casualties unknown

Landing on Runway 17 Results in Wingtip Strike and Gear Collapse (N7337B)

Anacortes, WA, US

On September 22, 1992, a Beech E35 (registration N7337B) operated by Becker, Lawrence D. was involved in an aviation accident near Anacortes, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. A FACTOR CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S NOT EXTENDING THE FLAPS FOR LANDING. 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

A pilot's landing on a turf runway led to the left wingtip striking trees and a snag. Examination showed wheel tracks angling toward the runway edge, nose gear separation, and right main gear collapse.

Accident Overview

A pilot conducted an approach and landing on Runway 17, a 1700-foot-long, 75-foot-wide turf strip that he owned and operated. During the rollout, the aircraft's left wingtip impacted trees and a dead snag along the east (left) edge of the runway.

Examination Findings

On-site examination revealed that the aircraft's wheel tracks gradually angled toward the east edge of the runway. The nose gear had separated in a manner consistent with side-induced overload, and the right main gear had collapsed under the same conditions. Despite the aircraft collapsing onto its right wing during the ground slide, examination of the electrically operated flaps showed no damage or deformation.

Runway and Wind Information

The airport owner, who was also the pilot, had published a recommendation in the 1991 Airport Master Record that landings be made from the south except in strong south winds. At the time of the accident, the pilot reported winds from the southeast at 3 to 5 knots.

Mechanical Examination

Post-crash examination of the brakes and throttle linkage revealed no mechanical malfunction.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15784. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.