1998-08-19: Piper PA-18-150 — Cordova, AK

Casualties unknown • Cordova, AK, US

Probable cause

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing area. A factor associated with the accident was grass covered rocks.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The private pilot was landing a tundra tire equipped airplane in an open, grass covered meadow to pick up a deer that he had shot earlier in the day. He stated that while on approach, the airplane touched down about 10 feet short of his intended touchdown point. He stated that during touchdown, the right main landing gear struck a large rock that was covered by tall grass, and the right main landing gear collapsed. The right wing struck the ground, and sustained substantial damage. The pilot noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-08-19 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Cordova, AK?

The private pilot was landing a tundra tire equipped airplane in an open, grass covered meadow to pick up a deer that he had shot earlier in the day. He stated that while on approach, the airplane touched down about 10 feet short of his intended touchdown point. He stated that during touchdown, the right main landing…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-08-19 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N7099Y, at Cordova, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing area. A factor associated with the accident was grass covered rocks.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10746. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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