On June 9, 2003, a Piper PA-12 (registration N2475M) was involved in an aviation accident near Teller, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for a crosswind and his failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, resulting in a loss of control and nose down of the airplane. A factor in the accident was a crosswind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing on a gravel runway with a left crosswind, a tailwheel-equipped airplane swerved left, the pilot attempted to abort, but the right main tire deflated, causing the airplane to nose down and sustain substantial damage.
Accident Details
A pilot was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane on a gravel runway. The wind conditions included a prevailing left crosswind. During the landing roll, the airplane swerved to the left.
Pilot Actions
The pilot attempted to regain directional control and abort the landing by applying right brake, right rudder, and engine power. Despite these efforts, the pilot was unable to abort the landing.
Damage and Outcome
During the event, the right main landing gear tire deflated. Subsequently, the airplane nosed down. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage, left aileron, and horizontal stabilizer.