Casualties unknown

Tailwheel-Equipped Airplane Swerves During Gravel Airstrip Landing, Left Landing Gear Collapses (N2608S)

Glennallen, AK, US

On August 22, 2003, a Piper PA-18-160 (registration N2608S) was involved in an aviation accident near Glennallen, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in an inadvertent ground loop, and collapse of the main landing gear. 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 commercial pilot lost directional control after touchdown on a gravel airstrip, causing the left main landing gear to collapse and the left wing to strike the ground.

Accident Overview

A commercial certificated pilot reported that during a landing on a gravel airstrip, the tailwheel and tundra tire equipped airplane swerved to the right shortly after touchdown. Despite the pilot's efforts, directional control could not be maintained. The loss of control resulted in the collapse of the left main landing gear.

Sequence of Events

According to the pilot, the landing was conducted in calm wind conditions. Upon touchdown, the airplane deviated to the right. The pilot was unable to correct the swerve, leading to the left main landing gear failure. Subsequently, the left wing made contact with the ground, which caused damage to the rear spar.

Pilot's Remarks

The pilot stated that he was unaware of any preaccident mechanical issues with the airplane. No further details regarding the aircraft's condition prior to the event were provided.

Damage Assessment

The primary structural damage was localized to the left wing's rear spar. The collapse of the left main landing gear also contributed to the wing-to-ground contact. The extent of additional damage was not specified.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030825X01393. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.