2002-08-05: Piper PA-18A-150 — Chickaloon, AK

Casualties unknown • Chickaloon, AK, US

Probable cause

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in the airplane impacting rough terrain. A factor contributing to the accident was the rough/uneven terrain condition.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported that while on a local area flight he elected to land on an unimproved ridge top. He said that after touching down he realized the landing area he selected was rougher than he anticipated, and attempted to abort the landing. During the aborted landing, he said the right main landing gear impacted elevated terrain and was damaged. He said he was then forced to continue the landing. As a result of the impact and landing, the main landing gear fuselage attachment points received substantial damage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-08-05 Piper PA-18A-150 accident near Chickaloon, AK?

The pilot reported that while on a local area flight he elected to land on an unimproved ridge top. He said that after touching down he realized the landing area he selected was rougher than he anticipated, and attempted to abort the landing. During the aborted landing, he said the right main landing gear impacted…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-08-05 involved a Piper PA-18A-150, registration N9255D, at Chickaloon, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in the airplane impacting rough terrain. A factor contributing to the accident was the rough/uneven terrain condition.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020814X01380. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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