On September 28, 1996, a Cessna 185 (registration N222WH) operated by John D. Walsh was involved in an aviation accident near Nome, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the pilot to maintain proper alignment of the selected landing area. Subsequent encounter with rocks was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot landing a tailwheel airplane in a remote area to pick up hunting partners experienced a ground loop; the right tire deflated, landing gear collapsed, and the right wing struck rocks.
Landing Sequence
A pilot was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane in a remote area to pick up two hunting partners. During the landing, the airplane drifted to the right and ground looped.
Tire and Gear Failure
The pilot reported that the right tire suddenly deflated due to overload or from being cut and punctured by rocks at touchdown. After the deflation, the right landing gear strut collapsed, and the right wing struck rocks along the right side of the landing area. The pilot indicated that the main landing gear tires were size 8.50 by 6.
No Mechanical Malfunction
The pilot reported that no mechanical malfunction was present in the airplane.