Aircraft ground excursion during landing

Casualties unknown • Fairbanks, AK, US

A student pilot experienced a loss of directional control during a three-point landing on a paved runway, resulting in structural damage to the aircraft.

What happened

A student pilot was performing a landing on runway 19L at a paved airport. The aircraft, which was equipped with tundra tires, was being observed from the ground by a flight instructor. During the approach, the student executed a three-point landing; however, upon touchdown, the airplane veered to the left as the right wing and right wheel lifted off the ground.

In an attempt to correct the deviation, the pilot applied right aileron, but the aircraft subsequently slammed down on the right wheel. This impact caused the right wheel landing gear strut to buckle and the right wing to strike the ground. The impact resulted in the right wing being bent upward at the attachment point of the right wing lift strut.

At the time of the accident, the wind was reported at 120 degrees true at 4 knots. The pilot had accumulated 46 total hours of flight time.

Probable cause

The aircraft veered left during a three-point landing, leading to a hard impact on the right landing gear and subsequent structural damage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-06-13 Piper PA-18 accident near Fairbanks, AK?

A student pilot experienced a loss of directional control during a three-point landing on a paved runway, resulting in structural damage to the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-06-13 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N1888A, operated by Uriah Strong, at Fairbanks, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft veered left during a three-point landing, leading to a hard impact on the right landing gear and subsequent structural damage.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020614X00890. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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