Pilot strikes bush during final approach on short airstrip

Casualties unknown • Chenega Bay, AK, US

A pilot attempting to land on a short airstrip encountered strong crosswinds and sun glare, resulting in the propeller striking a bush just above the runway surface.

What happened

The pilot reported establishing a long, flat final approach for landing on an airstrip measuring 1000 feet in length and 40 feet in width. Environmental conditions included a strong crosswind from the right and low sun glare reflecting off nearby water. Approximately 10 feet above the airstrip surface, the aircraft propeller contacted a single tall bush that was not visible to the pilot. The airplane ceased generating lift, spun around, and came to rest on the airstrip. Substantial damage occurred to the left wing and empennage.

Findings

Contributing factors included fuel exhaustion (if applicable, otherwise omit) or environmental conditions such as strong crosswind and sun glare. The pilot's inability to see the bush in time led to the collision.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from terrain during final approach due to visibility issues caused by sun glare and a strong crosswind.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-08-17 Piper PA-11 accident near Chenega Bay, AK?

A pilot attempting to land on a short airstrip encountered strong crosswinds and sun glare, resulting in the propeller striking a bush just above the runway surface.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-08-17 involved a Piper PA-11, registration N78635, at Chenega Bay, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from terrain during final approach due to visibility issues caused by sun glare and a strong crosswind.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21636. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…