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Left Ski Failure During Landing on Snow (N2598P)

Kotzebue, AK, US

On April 27, 1996, a Piper PA-18 (registration N2598P) was involved in an aviation accident near Kotzebue, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain directional control and prevent a hard landing due to a gust of wind, which resulted in the failure of the left ski and subsequent damage to the airframe. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot encountered a gust of wind just before touchdown, causing a hard landing on the left ski which broke off, leading to significant structural damage.

What happened

The pilot reported encountering a sudden gust of wind from the right side immediately prior to touchdown. The aircraft landed heavily on the left ski, resulting in the detachment of that component. Following the failure, the left wing contacted the snow surface, causing the airplane to veer to the left. As the aircraft continued its uncontrolled path, the right ski dug into the snow, and the right wing also dragged across the ground. This sequence of events caused extensive damage to the wings, wing struts, and fuselage.

The investigation

The primary mechanical failure identified was the breakage of the left ski upon impact with the ground during a hard landing. Subsequent structural failures were secondary consequences of the aircraft's uncontrolled ground contact.

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to maintain directional control and prevent a hard landing due to a gust of wind, which resulted in the failure of the left ski and subsequent damage to the airframe.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Apr 1996 Piper PA-18 accident near Kotzebue, AK?

A pilot encountered a gust of wind just before touchdown, causing a hard landing on the left ski which broke off, leading to significant structural damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Apr 1996 Piper PA-18 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Apr 1996 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N2598P, at Kotzebue, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inability to maintain directional control and prevent a hard landing due to a gust of wind, which resulted in the failure of the left ski and subsequent damage to the airframe.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05505. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.