On September 2, 1996, a Piper PA-18 (registration N7669D) was involved in an aviation accident near Gakona, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing due to gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in the airplane veering off the airstrip and colliding with trees and brush. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot flying a 'Tundra' tire-equipped aircraft lost directional control during landing roll on a turf airstrip due to gusty crosswind conditions, resulting in a collision with trees and brush.
What happened
The pilot was operating an airplane equipped with "Tundra" tires when attempting to land on a turf airstrip. The weather conditions at the time were characterized by gusty crosswinds, which presented significant handling challenges during the approach and touchdown phases.
During the landing roll, the aircraft experienced a sudden shift in wind direction. A specific gust of wind veered the airplane to the right. Despite the pilot's efforts to maintain directional control, the combination of the crosswind component and the surface conditions proved too difficult to manage. The aircraft departed the paved or turf surface and proceeded into adjacent vegetation.
The collision with trees and brush occurred immediately after the loss of directional control. The force of the impact was sufficient to bring the aircraft to a stop off the airstrip. No further details regarding the extent of damage or injuries were provided in the initial report.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing due to gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in the airplane veering off the airstrip and colliding with trees and brush.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 Sept 1996 Piper PA-18 accident near Gakona, AK?
A pilot flying a 'Tundra' tire-equipped aircraft lost directional control during landing roll on a turf airstrip due to gusty crosswind conditions, resulting in a collision with trees and brush.
Were there any fatalities in the 2 Sept 1996 Piper PA-18 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Sept 1996 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N7669D, at Gakona, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing due to gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in the airplane veering off the airstrip and colliding with trees and brush.
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