What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1993-09-19 involved a Piper PA-14, registration N4259H, operated by Fleek, Wayne A., at Yantarni Bay, AK.

Beach Landing Results in Gear Collapse and Wing Damage (N4259H)

On September 19, 1993, a Piper PA-14 (registration N4259H) operated by Fleek, Wayne A. was involved in an aviation accident near Yantarni Bay, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT FAILED TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE DURING THE LANDING ROLL. A FACTOR WAS THE CROSSWIND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

During a beach landing with a 30-degree downslope and gusty crosswind, the airplane turned abruptly after touchdown, collapsing the right main landing gear and striking both wings against the ground.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during an attempted landing on a beach, the airplane encountered a crosswind from the right, blowing from the water at approximately 20 knots gusting to 25 knots. The beach sloped downward toward the water at an angle of about 30 degrees.

Sequence of Events

After touchdown, the airplane traveled about 150 feet before it abruptly turned approximately 90 degrees to the left. The right main landing gear then collapsed, and both wings struck the ground.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated, "I guess the crosswind was too much for me." No further details were provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or any occupants.

Damage Assessment

The accident resulted in the collapse of the right main landing gear and damage to both wings. The extent of damage to other components was not specified.

1993-09-19: Piper PA-14 (N4259H) — Fleek, Wayne A. — Yantarni Bay, AK