No fatalities

Landing Gear Failure on Remote Gravel Strip (N9278C)

Mccarthy, AK, US

On October 10, 2003, a Cessna 180 (registration N9278C) was involved in an aviation accident near Mccarthy, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The separation of the left main landing gear wheel from the gear leg, which led to a veer off the runway and subsequent collapse of the right main 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

During a supply run to a remote airstrip, an aircraft experienced a left main gear separation on its tenth landing of the day, leading to a collapse and structural damage.

What happened

The aircraft was engaged in a logistical operation, transporting essential supplies to a remote airstrip characterized by rough, gravel-covered terrain. The flight involved multiple landings throughout the day, with this incident occurring during approximately the tenth landing attempt.

Upon touchdown, the left main landing gear wheel detached from the gear leg. This sudden failure caused the aircraft to veer sharply to the left. As a result of the directional instability and impact forces, the right main landing gear subsequently collapsed. Post-incident examination revealed that the left main landing gear leg had fractured specifically through the upper wheel mounting-bolt holes.

The accident resulted in significant structural damage to both the fuselage and the right wing of the aircraft. No injuries were reported among the crew or passengers, though the aircraft was rendered inoperable due to the extent of the mechanical failure.

Probable cause

The separation of the left main landing gear wheel from the gear leg, which led to a veer off the runway and subsequent collapse of the right main gear.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Oct 2003 Cessna 180 accident near Mccarthy, AK?

During a supply run to a remote airstrip, an aircraft experienced a left main gear separation on its tenth landing of the day, leading to a collapse and structural damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 10 Oct 2003 Cessna 180 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Oct 2003 involved a Cessna 180, registration N9278C, at Mccarthy, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The separation of the left main landing gear wheel from the gear leg, which led to a veer off the runway and subsequent collapse of the right main gear.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031022X01798. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.