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Landing Gear Strikes Frozen Dirt Mound During Touch-and-Go on Frozen Lake (N7431D)

Kasilof, AK, US

On October 26, 1996, a Piper PA-22/20 (registration N7431D) was involved in an aviation accident near Kasilof, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's misjudgment of distance and altitude on final approach to land, which resulted in an undershoot and collision with a dirt bank before reaching the proper touchdown point. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a touch-and-go on a frozen lake, the right main landing gear struck a frozen dirt mound, folding back, causing damage to the gear, propeller, and right wing.

Accident Overview

A pilot conducting touch-and-go operations on a frozen lake adjacent to his property experienced a landing gear strike. A small frozen mound of dirt was located at the approach end of the lake. The pilot reported that he was concerned about stopping on the frozen surface, and his approach path was a little low.

Pilot's Account

The pilot indicated that during the approach, the right main landing gear struck the mound of dirt before touchdown. The impact folded the gear back against the fuselage. Subsequently, the airplane contacted the surface of the lake.

Damage

Damage was sustained to the right main landing gear, the propeller, and the spar and outboard ribs of the right wing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Oct 1996 Piper PA-22/20 accident near Kasilof, AK?

During a touch-and-go on a frozen lake, the right main landing gear struck a frozen dirt mound, folding back, causing damage to the gear, propeller, and right wing.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Oct 1996 Piper PA-22/20 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Oct 1996 involved a Piper PA-22/20, registration N7431D, at Kasilof, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's misjudgment of distance and altitude on final approach to land, which resulted in an undershoot and collision with a dirt bank before reaching the proper touchdown point. A factor related to the accident was: the proximity of the frozen dirt bank at the approach end of the intended point of landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06830. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.