Repeated Landing Gear Collapse in Alaska

Casualties unknown • Kotzebue, AK, US

A pilot experienced two separate landing gear collapses while operating a tundra tire equipped aircraft, first during an initial landing and again following temporary repairs.

What happened

While operating a tundra tire equipped airplane at a rural airstrip used for mining activities, the pilot experienced difficulties maintaining directional control during landing. During this maneuver, the aircraft's right main landing gear collapsed. The impact resulted in damage to the right wing spar, the right wing struts, and a portion of the fuselage.

Following the initial incident, the pilot performed temporary repairs to the aircraft. These repairs included using water pipe to reinforce the landing gear and taping boards to the lift struts. The pilot then flew the airplane from the mining strip to McGrath, Alaska, to obtain fuel. However, during the departure from McGrath, the main landing gear collapsed a second time, causing additional damage to the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-07-13 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Kotzebue, AK?

A pilot experienced two separate landing gear collapses while operating a tundra tire equipped aircraft, first during an initial landing and again following temporary repairs.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-07-13 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N2561N, operated by Tyrrell G. Ross, at Kotzebue, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06146. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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