Aircraft excursion during landing at runway 19L

Casualties unknown • Chugiak, AK, US

A pilot experienced a sudden wind gust during the landing roll on runway 19L, resulting in an aircraft excursion and substantial damage to the airframe.

What happened

During the approach for landing on runway 19L, the pilot encountered light and variable winds estimated at 5 knots from the south. Immediately following touchdown, a sudden gust of wind pushed the tail of the aircraft to the left, causing the airplane to veer toward the right side of the runway.

In an attempt to abort the landing, the pilot applied full engine power. This caused the aircraft to become airborne again while in ground effect. During this phase, the aircraft drifted further to the right, and the right main landing gear struck a culvert located on the right side of the runway. The impact caused the airplane to pivot to the right, leading the left wing to strike the ground.

The aircraft sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident anomalies with the aircraft, and the pilot was not injured.

Probable cause

A sudden gust of wind during the landing roll caused the aircraft to veer right and strike a culvert.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-08-01 Piper PA-18 accident near Chugiak, AK?

A pilot experienced a sudden wind gust during the landing roll on runway 19L, resulting in an aircraft excursion and substantial damage to the airframe.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-08-01 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N4948, at Chugiak, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A sudden gust of wind during the landing roll caused the aircraft to veer right and strike a culvert.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020808X01350. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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