Casualties unknown

1999-03-16: Champion 7GCBC (N9023L) — Healy, AK

Healy, AK, US

On March 16, 1999, a Champion 7GCBC (registration N9023L) was involved in an aviation accident near Healy, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate recovery from a bounced landing. A factor associated with the accident was a snowbank. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot lost directional control after a bounced landing and a subsequent go-around attempt, causing the tailwheel airplane to veer off the runway into a ditch. The airplane sustained substantial damage.

Accident Overview

A private pilot flying a tailwheel airplane experienced a loss of directional control during a landing attempt, resulting in a runway excursion. The accident occurred on a 2,920-foot long by 60-foot wide runway bordered by a ditch. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical anomalies.

Sequence of Events

According to the pilot's written report, the airplane bounced on initial touchdown. He then attempted to abort the landing by applying full power. The airplane became airborne, veered to the left, and settled onto the runway edge. During the second touchdown, the left wheel contacted soft snow, and the pilot was unable to maintain directional control. The airplane subsequently departed the left side of the runway and came to rest in a ditch adjacent to the runway.

Damage

The accident resulted in substantial damage to the right wing, right landing gear leg, and fuselage. No other damage was reported.

Other Information

No preaccident mechanical anomalies were identified by the pilot. The pilot was the sole occupant of the airplane; no injuries were reported.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00251. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.