What happened
The private certificated pilot was attempting to land an airplane equipped with tundra tires at a remote airstrip characterized by rough and uneven terrain. The strip itself is oriented east-west and measures approximately 800 feet in length with a width of just 9 feet. According to the pilot's account, he touched down toward the western end of the field in an area covered with tundra and rocks. During the landing roll, the right tire struck rocks, causing the airplane to bounce. As the right tire moved into bushes along the edge of the landing area, the pilot applied the brakes. This action caused the airplane to nosed over.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed significant damage to several components of the aircraft. The propeller sustained damage, as did the left wing lift strut. Additionally, the right wing and the rudder were damaged during the incident.
Findings
The accident occurred due to the challenging nature of the landing site. The combination of rough terrain, limited strip width, and obstacles such as rocks and bushes contributed to the loss of control during the landing roll. The pilot's decision to land on such a restricted and uneven surface played a critical role in the outcome.
Safety message
Pilots should carefully evaluate the suitability of remote airstrips before attempting to land. Factors such as strip length, width, surface condition, and surrounding obstacles must be considered to ensure a safe landing.