On June 21, 2000, a Cessna 180 (registration N3229D) operated by Jay S. Hammond was involved in an aviation accident near Port Alsworth, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The fatigue failure of the left main landing gear leg at the main landing gear axle attachment bolt holes. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing on a 1,200-foot gravel airstrip, the left landing gear leg fractured, causing the airplane to nose over. Inspection revealed fatigue cracks from corrosion pits at the bolt holes.
Accident Details
A pilot reported that during landing on his 1,200-foot long by 100-foot wide gravel airstrip, the left landing gear leg dug into the ground immediately after touchdown, causing the airplane to nose over. The left wheel assembly was found 200 feet from the wreckage. The pilot noted that the airplane had been equipped with wheel-ski assemblies until one month prior to the accident.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the left landing gear strut revealed that the lower four inches were missing, with the fracture occurring at the main landing gear axle attachment bolt holes. The lower section of the fractured landing gear leg was sent to the NTSB materials laboratory for inspection on August 16, 2000. Analysis showed that all four corners of the fractured bolt holes exhibited fatigue cracks that originated from corrosion pits. Additionally, significant corrosion pitting and oxidation were observed on the surface of the gear leg adjacent to the crack origins.
What happened in the 21 Jun 2000 Cessna 180 accident near Port Alsworth, AK?
During landing on a 1,200-foot gravel airstrip, the left landing gear leg fractured, causing the airplane to nose over. Inspection revealed fatigue cracks from corrosion pits at the bolt holes.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Jun 2000 Cessna 180 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Jun 2000 involved a Cessna 180, registration N3229D, operated by Jay S. Hammond, at Port Alsworth, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The fatigue failure of the left main landing gear leg at the main landing gear axle attachment bolt holes.
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