What happened
The pilot observed individuals in a boat within Knik Arm and believed they required assistance. Believing he had identified a marked runway, the pilot proceeded to land adjacent to several flags. The landing area was located near a survey line within a restricted zone of the Ft. Richardson Artillery Impact Area.
During the landing roll, the aircraft struck a tidal ravine. This impact caused the main landing gear to collapse and resulted in both wings bending downward until the wingtips touched the ground. The pilot was not injured.
Following the incident, Ft. Richardson Military Police administered a field sobriety test. During an HCN test, the pilot's eyes exhibited a lack of smooth pursuit, with a maximum deviation of 35%. The pilot declined to submit to further blood or urine testing.