Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Gust During Landing Causes Runway Excursion and Damage (N4948)

Chugiak, AK, US

On August 1, 2002, a Piper PA-18 (registration N4948) was involved in an aviation accident near Chugiak, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions and his failure to maintain directional control during an aborted landing, which resulted in an in-flight collision with a culvert. A factor associated with the accident was a wind gust. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that during landing on runway 19L, a sudden gust pushed the tail left, causing a veer to the right. After applying full power to abort, the airplane struck a culvert and sustained substantial damage.

Incident Overview

A certificated airline transport pilot reported that while on approach for landing on runway 19L, he encountered what he characterized as light and variable winds estimated to be from the south, at 5 knots. Just after touchdown, a sudden gust of wind pushed the tail of the airplane to the left, causing the airplane to veer to the right. The pilot applied full engine power in an attempt to abort the landing.

Sequence of Events

The airplane became airborne and, while in ground effect, drifted to the right side of the runway. The right main landing gear subsequently struck a culvert on the right side of the runway. The airplane pivoted to the right, and the left wing struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident anomalies with the airplane.

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.