Casualties unknown

2003-09-03: Piper PA-18 (N4500W) — Koliganek, AK

Koliganek, AK, US

On September 3, 2003, a Piper PA-18 (registration N4500W) was involved in an aviation accident near Koliganek, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during an aborted landing, which resulted in an inadvertent stall and subsequent collision with terrain. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot's second landing attempt on a tundra strip resulted in a go-around, then a gear collapse after a brief climb and turn, causing fuselage and wing damage.

Incident Overview

A private certificated pilot was conducting cruise flight when the airplane's carbon monoxide detector indicated a black color, signaling the presence of carbon monoxide. The pilot decided to land on a tundra-covered area approximately 1000 feet long, a location where he had previously landed.

Landing Attempts

During the first landing attempt, the pilot initiated a go-around. On the second attempt, the pilot touched down but felt the speed was too high. He aborted the landing and applied full power. The airplane lifted off and climbed to between 15 and 20 feet above the ground. The pilot then began a slight right turn, at which point the airplane settled to the ground.

Damage and Conditions

The landing gear collapsed, and the airplane sustained damage to the fuselage and wings. The pilot reported that wind conditions were light and variable.

Investigation Notes

No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or occupants were provided. The incident did not involve air traffic control, and no injuries were reported in the source material.

The pilot's decision to land after detecting carbon monoxide, followed by the go-around and subsequent settling, led to the structural damage. However, no probable cause was explicitly stated by the investigation source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030912X01527. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.