On September 13, 1996, a Piper PA-12 (registration N7895H) was involved in an aviation accident near Chitina, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing site. A factor associated with the accident is the rough and uneven landing site. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot experienced a collapse of both main landing gears after striking a rock during the landing roll at a remote off-airport site used for resupply.
What happened
The incident occurred when a student pilot attempted to land an aircraft at a remote, unimproved location. The purpose of the stop was to replenish grain supplies for horses utilized in a hunting and guiding operation. During the landing roll on the uneven terrain, the left main landing gear tire struck a rock. This impact caused the left main landing gear to collapse. Shortly after the initial failure, the right main landing gear also collapsed.
The investigation
The available factual narrative describes the sequence of events leading to the damage. No further mechanical examination or technical analysis details are provided in the source material regarding the condition of the aircraft prior to the event or the specific structural failures beyond the collapse of the gear struts.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 13 Sept 1996 Piper PA-12 accident near Chitina, AK?
A student pilot experienced a collapse of both main landing gears after striking a rock during the landing roll at a remote off-airport site used for resupply.
Were there any fatalities in the 13 Sept 1996 Piper PA-12 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Sept 1996 involved a Piper PA-12, registration N7895H, at Chitina, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing site. A factor associated with the accident is the rough and uneven landing site.
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