Ground Loop and Landing Gear Collapse During Landing

Casualties unknown • King Salmon, AK, US

A private pilot experienced a sudden ground loop during landing, resulting in a collapsed landing gear and substantial damage to the aircraft's right wing.

What happened

A certificated private pilot was performing a landing on a paved, dry runway in a tundra tire, tailwheel equipped airplane. According to the pilot, the initial touchdown and the subsequent landing roll proceeded without incident. However, the aircraft's nose began to veer slightly to the left during the rollout.

The pilot attempted to correct the deviation by applying right rudder, but the aircraft suddenly entered a ground loop to the left. During this maneuver, the right main landing gear collapsed. The resulting movement caused the right wing to collide with the runway surface. The pilot was not injured in the accident.

Findings

The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the right wing and the right wing struts. Prior to the accident, the pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies associated with the operation of the airplane.

Probable cause

The sudden ground loop and subsequent collapse of the right main landing gear.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-04-22 Piper PA-18 accident near King Salmon, AK?

A private pilot experienced a sudden ground loop during landing, resulting in a collapsed landing gear and substantial damage to the aircraft's right wing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-04-22 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N1389A, at King Salmon, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The sudden ground loop and subsequent collapse of the right main landing gear.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00412. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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