Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Collision with Rocks During Landing Roll (N9038D)

Beluga, AK, US

On June 29, 2004, a Piper PA-22-160 (registration N9038D) was involved in an aviation accident near Beluga, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable area for landing, which resulted in an on ground encounter with rocks during the landing roll, and the collapse of the left 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

During landing roll at a remote airstrip, the airplane slowed to about 25 knots when the left main wheel hit large rocks, causing the landing gear to collapse and damaging the wing and propeller.

Accident Overview

A pilot reported that during the landing roll at a remote airstrip, the airplane had decelerated to approximately 25 knots when the left main wheel collided with large rocks lining the left side of the landing area. This collision resulted in the collapse of the left main landing gear, and the left wing and propeller subsequently struck the ground.

Sequence of Events

According to the pilot's report, the landing roll was proceeding normally until the aircraft slowed to about 25 knots. At that point, the left main wheel came into contact with large rocks that were positioned along the left edge of the landing strip. The impact caused the left main landing gear to fail, and the left wing and propeller made contact with the ground surface.

Damage Assessment

Post-accident inspection revealed damage to several components. The left main landing gear collapsed. The left wing and propeller struck the ground, resulting in damage to the left wing lift strut, the wing structure, the propeller, and the fuselage. The airplane was examined, and there were no known mechanical anomalies found prior to the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040708X00924. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.