Casualties unknown

Pilot Lands on Gravel Bar in Mountains After Weather Worsens, Strikes Rock (N6066D)

Jay Creek, AK, US

On August 21, 1993, a Piper PA-22 (registration N6066D) operated by Gifford, William D. was involved in an aviation accident near Jay Creek, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF UNSUITABLE TERRAIN ON WHICH TO LAND. 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 flying through mountains encountered deteriorating ceiling and visibility, turned around, and after about 15 minutes decided to land on a gravel bar to wait for improvement. Upon touchdown, the left main wheel hit a rock, causing the airplane to bounce and the left wing to strike the ground.

Incident Description

According to the pilot, while flying through mountainous terrain, the ceiling and visibility gradually worsened to the point where he determined it would not be possible to proceed through the desired area. He initiated a turn and flew for approximately 15 minutes before deciding to land on a gravel bar. The intention was to wait for the weather to improve and then attempt the flight again.

Shortly after touchdown, approximately 20 feet into the landing roll, the left main wheel contacted a rock. The impact caused the airplane to bounce. Subsequently, the left wing made contact with the ground.

Pilot Account

The pilot reported that the decision to land was made due to the deteriorating weather conditions in the mountains. He had turned around and flown for about 15 minutes prior to selecting the gravel bar as a landing site. The landing was intended to be a temporary stop to await better conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13041. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.