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Landing Gear Collapse After Tire Separates From Rim on Tailwheel Aircraft (N185QB)

Kotzebue, AK, US

On September 3, 1997, a Cessna 185 (registration N185QB) operated by Alaska Island Air was involved in an aviation accident near Kotzebue, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The collapse/deflation of the right main tire when the tire slipped on the tire wheel rim which resulted in the collapse of the right main landing gear due to overload. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During landing roll on grass, the right tire of a tailwheel airplane separated from the rim, deflated, and vibrated, leading to right main landing gear collapse and wing strike.

Incident Description

The pilot was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane in a remote area. The aircraft was fitted with oversized tundra-type tires inflated to approximately 12 PSI. An adhesive had been applied between the main wheel rim and the tire to prevent the tire from rotating independently of the wheel.

Sequence of Events

During the landing roll on grassy terrain, the right tire rotated away from the wheel rim. The tire then deflated and began to vibrate. Subsequently, the right main landing gear collapsed, and the right wing struck the ground.

Aircraft Information

The airplane was equipped with tailwheel landing gear and oversize tundra tires. The specific make, model, registration, and operator were not provided in the source.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Sept 1997 Cessna 185 accident near Kotzebue, AK?

During landing roll on grass, the right tire of a tailwheel airplane separated from the rim, deflated, and vibrated, leading to right main landing gear collapse and wing strike.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Sept 1997 Cessna 185 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Sept 1997 involved a Cessna 185, registration N185QB, operated by Alaska Island Air, at Kotzebue, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The collapse/deflation of the right main tire when the tire slipped on the tire wheel rim which resulted in the collapse of the right main landing gear due to overload.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08768. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.