Aircraft wing damage during landing on tundra

Casualties unknown • Ekwok, AK, US

A private pilot experienced a wing lift and subsequent gear collapse while landing an aircraft on tundra near a fishing lodge.

What happened

A private certificated pilot was performing a landing on the tundra adjacent to his fishing lodge. The pilot had intended to land into the prevailing wind, which was blowing at approximately 22 knots with gusts reaching 30 knots.

Upon touchdown, the pilot determined that the wind direction was actually a left quartering headwind. During the landing roll, this wind lifted the left wing of the aircraft. In an attempt to maintain control, the pilot applied full left aileron and full left rudder while simultaneously applying engine power.

As the maneuver progressed, the right wing made contact with the tundra, causing the airplane to veer to the right. This resulted in the collapse of the left main landing gear and caused the left wing to strike the ground. The pilot was not injured.

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to land into a wind that was actually a left quartering headwind caused the left wing to lift, leading to a loss of control and subsequent gear collapse and wing strike.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-06-05 Piper PA-18 accident near Ekwok, AK?

A private pilot experienced a wing lift and subsequent gear collapse while landing an aircraft on tundra near a fishing lodge.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-06-05 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N1195A, operated by Fred C. Noden Jr., at Ekwok, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's attempt to land into a wind that was actually a left quartering headwind caused the left wing to lift, leading to a loss of control and subsequent gear collapse and wing strike.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18924. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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