Aircraft takeoff aborted following gear damage at remote beach

Casualties unknown • Cape Yakataga, AK, US

A pilot aborted a takeoff from a remote beach area after the aircraft's right main landing gear struck a partially buried log.

What happened

A pilot was performing a departure from a remote beach area. The pilot originally intended to depart toward the west; however, because the sun was directly in his line of sight, he adjusted the takeoff direction slightly to the left of the planned path.

As the Cessna (type not specified) began to lift off during the takeoff run, the right main landing gear struck a log that was partially buried in the ground. Following the impact, the pilot aborted the takeoff and brought the aircraft to a stop.

The investigation

Upon inspection following the incident, it was discovered that the right main landing gear strut had been displaced approximately 45 degrees aft and 20 degrees outboard. Additionally, the attachment point for the right main landing gear on the fuselage exhibited extensive buckling and tearing. There were no injuries reported.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to alter the takeoff direction to avoid looking into the sun resulted in the right main landing gear striking a partially buried log.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-09-18 Cessna 180 accident near Cape Yakataga, AK?

A pilot aborted a takeoff from a remote beach area after the aircraft's right main landing gear struck a partially buried log.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-09-18 involved a Cessna 180, registration N2162Z, operated by Benjamin K. Baker, at Cape Yakataga, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to alter the takeoff direction to avoid looking into the sun resulted in the right main landing gear striking a partially buried log.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030924X01587. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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