On October 21, 2002, a Cessna 180 (registration N1302D) was involved in an aviation accident near Wasilla, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in the left wing striking the ground. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot experienced a landing roll deviation that resulted in the left wing striking the ground. The aircraft sustained damage to the aileron and wing structure while parked along the runway edge.
What happened
The private certificated pilot was conducting a landing on a hard-surface runway under calm wind conditions. During the landing roll, the airplane swerved sharply to the right. This deviation caused the left wing to strike the ground before the aircraft came to rest along the right side of the runway.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed specific damage to the airframe. The left aileron sustained impact damage. Additionally, the outboard wing rib and the upper surface of the wingtip were damaged. The weather at the airport was noted as having calm winds at the time of the event.
Findings
The sequence of events indicates a loss of directional control during the landing roll. The swerve to the right led directly to the ground contact with the left wing structure. No mechanical failure or weather factor other than the calm winds was identified as a contributing element in this narrative.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in the left wing striking the ground.