Landing accident involving tundra tire-equipped aircraft at remote airstrip

Casualties unknown • Palmer, AK, US

A commercial pilot experienced a landing gear failure and subsequent structural damage while attempting to land on a short, remote airstrip.

What happened

A commercial certificated pilot was performing a landing on a remote airstrip equipped with tundra tires. The airstrip, which measured approximately 500 feet in length, was oriented north/south. While attempting to land toward the south, the aircraft collided with the edge of the airstrip, which coincided with the bank of a creek.

The impact caused the landing gear to be torn off. Following the collision, the aircraft came to rest on its belly-mounted auxiliary fuel tank. The aircraft also experienced an impact where the nose descended onto the airstrip, resulting in damage to the engine and propeller.

The investigation

Following the accident, the aircraft was recovered and underwent a mechanical inspection. During this process, it was determined that the aircraft sustained structural damage to the aft gusset of the right main landing gear attach point.

Probable cause

The pilot collided with the edge of the airstrip during landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-08-07 Piper PA-18 accident near Palmer, AK?

A commercial pilot experienced a landing gear failure and subsequent structural damage while attempting to land on a short, remote airstrip.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-08-07 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N645RF, operated by Bishop, Gary Lee, at Palmer, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot collided with the edge of the airstrip during landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040813X01216. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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