Aircraft excursion during landing at intermediate stop

Casualties unknown • King Salmon, AK, US

A commercial pilot experienced a leftward veer after touchdown during a government cross-country flight, resulting in minor contact with the runway surface.

What happened

During a government cross-country flight, a commercial certificated pilot was performing a landing on runway 29 at an airport serving as an intermediate stop. The reported wind conditions at the time were 070 degrees at 6 knots.

Upon touchdown, the airplane began to veer to the left. In an attempt to correct the directional deviation, the pilot applied right rudder and right brake pressure. Despite these corrective actions, the aircraft continued its leftward movement. The right wingtip and the right aileron subsequently struck the gravel-covered ground located along the left side of the runway.

The impact caused the right wingtip to bend upward slightly and resulted in the trailing edge of the right aileron buckling upward. There were no injuries reported following the incident. After assessing the damage, the pilot determined the aircraft remained airworthy and proceeded to the final destination.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-04-21 Piper PA-18 accident near King Salmon, AK?

A commercial pilot experienced a leftward veer after touchdown during a government cross-country flight, resulting in minor contact with the runway surface.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-04-21 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N745, operated by U.s. Fish And Wildlife Service, at King Salmon, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and inadequate weather evaluation resulting in a loss of directional control during the landing roll. Factors in the accident were the presence of a quartering tailwind, and an inadvertent ground loop.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010509X00910. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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