Casualties unknown

Wind Gust During Touch-and-Go Landing Results in Wing Strike and Gear Collapse (N9963Q)

Palmer, AK, US

On June 14, 2000, a Piper PA-18-160 (registration N9963Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Palmer, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions. A factor associated in the accident was a variable wind. 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 pilot practicing touch-and-go landings on a remote sand bar reported that a gust of wind lifted the right wing, causing the left wing to strike the ground, leading to a pivot and collapse of the right main landing gear.

Event Description

A certificated airline transport pilot was conducting touch-and-go landing practice on a remote sand bar. During the fifth landing, as the airplane was just prior to touchdown, a gust of wind lifted the right wing. This caused the left wing to strike the ground. The airplane then pivoted approximately 45 degrees to the left, and the right main landing gear struck the ground and collapsed.

Damage

The right wing sustained substantial damage to the main spar. No other damage was specified.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported the sequence of events as described. No additional information regarding environmental conditions or aircraft specifics was provided.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21143. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.