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Casualties unknown

Precautionary Landing Results in Gear Collapse and Nose-Over (N22946)

Kittanning, PA, US

On May 10, 1996, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N22946) was involved in an aviation accident near Kittanning, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate inflight planning/decision and improper fuel management, which resulted in a precautionary landing on unsuitable terrain. 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 conducting a precautionary landing due to low fuel experienced left main gear collapse and nose-over after adding power to avoid a ditch. The aircraft was moved before authorities were notified.

Incident Overview

During a flight, the pilot elected to make an off-airport landing due to low fuel. The aircraft carried a six-gallon fuel reserve container onboard, intended for use in the event of an off-airport fuel stop. The pilot described the general terrain as rolling and at times mountainous.

Landing Sequence

While executing the precautionary landing, the pilot observed a narrow ditch and added power in an attempt to overfly it. Upon touchdown, the left main landing gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to nose over.

Post-Accident Actions

Neither the National Transportation Safety Board nor the Federal Aviation Administration were notified of the accident before the aircraft was moved from the accident site.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05855. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.