Landing gear collapse during landing on gravel airstrip

Casualties unknown • Skwentna, AK, US

A commercial pilot experienced a landing gear collapse while operating on an uneven gravel airstrip, resulting in structural damage to the aircraft.

What happened

A commercial certificated pilot was performing a landing on a rough and uneven gravel-covered airstorp. During the landing flare, the pilot encountered a slight downdraft, which caused the aircraft to touch down with more force than anticipated.

Following the touchdown, the left main landing gear collapsed, which was immediately followed by the collapse of the right main landing gear. The impact caused the fuselage to strike the surface of the gravel site.

The investigation

The aircraft sustained structural damage to the left elevator, the left wing, and the fuselage. Prior to the accident, the pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies noted with the airplane.

Probable cause

The landing gear collapsed after the aircraft touched down harder than intended due to a downdraft encountered during the landing flare while operating on an uneven gravel surface.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-06-13 Cessna 185 accident near Skwentna, AK?

A commercial pilot experienced a landing gear collapse while operating on an uneven gravel airstrip, resulting in structural damage to the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-06-13 involved a Cessna 185, registration N185AV, at Skwentna, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The landing gear collapsed after the aircraft touched down harder than intended due to a downdraft encountered during the landing flare while operating on an uneven gravel surface.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040628X00874. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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