Aircraft Runway Excursion on Gravel Runway in Alaska

Casualties unknown • Kongiganak, AK, US

An aircraft departed a gravel runway in Alaska after hitting a rut during touchdown, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage.

What happened

During a landing attempt on a gravel runway measuring 1,880 feet in length and 35 feet in width, the aircraft experienced a runway excursion. Winds at the time were estimated by the pilot and a witness to be from 270 degrees, gusting to 25 knots.

Upon touchdown, the airplane struck a rut in the surface, which caused the aircraft to bounce and become airborne again. As the aircraft moved, the right wing lifted, and the plane departed the left side of the runway. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage. No injuries were reported among the pilot or witnesses.

The runway condition was described by the pilot, a witness, and company personnel as extremely potholed and unsuitable for operations. Notably, this flight marked the pilot's first revenue flight in Alaska, as well as the company's first flight to this specific airport.

Probable cause

The aircraft departed the runway after striking a rut in the gravel surface during touchdown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-09-06 Cessna 207 accident near Kongiganak, AK?

An aircraft departed a gravel runway in Alaska after hitting a rut during touchdown, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-09-06 involved a Cessna 207, registration N9874M, at Kongiganak, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft departed the runway after striking a rut in the gravel surface during touchdown.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21886. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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