Casualties unknown

Pilot Encounters Crosswind During Tundra Landing (N1195A)

Ekwok, AK, US

On June 5, 1999, a Piper PA-18 (registration N1195A) operated by Fred C. Noden Jr. was involved in an aviation accident near Ekwok, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for crosswind conditions. Factors in the accident were a crosswind, and an inadvertent ground loop. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot experienced a left quartering headwind while landing on tundra, causing the left wing to lift. Despite corrective inputs, the airplane veered right, collapsing the left main gear and damaging the wing.

Incident Overview

A private certificated pilot was landing on the tundra adjacent to his fishing lodge. The pilot reported intending to land into the prevailing wind, which he estimated to be about 22 knots with gusts to 30 knots. However, upon touchdown, he realized the actual wind direction was a left quartering headwind.

Sequence of Events

During the landing roll, the wind lifted the left wing. The pilot applied full left aileron and full left rudder, and also added engine power in an attempt to control the airplane. Despite these inputs, the right wing contacted the tundra, causing the airplane to veer to the right. Subsequently, the left main landing gear collapsed, and the left wing struck the ground.

Aircraft Damage

The pilot reported that the left wing's aft spar was broken, and the wing was deformed aft as a result of the ground contact.

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.