Aircraft stall and ground impact during approach

Casualties unknown • Wasilla, AK, US

A private pilot experienced a loss of engine responsiveness during a turn on final approach, resulting in a stall and landing gear collapse.

What happened

While performing a left turn from the base leg to the final approach course, the pilot of the aircraft was approximately 100 feet above ground level and positioned over the airstrip threshold. In an attempt to arrest a descent during the maneuver, the pilot increased engine power; however, the engine RPM failed to respond for approximately three to four seconds. During this delay, the aircraft entered a stall and descended toward the ground.

The pilot managed to level the wings prior to contact with the runway. The aircraft subsequently collided with the runway surface in a wings-level attitude. The impact caused the main landing gear to collapse and resulted in damage to the propeller, the left wingtip, and the left wing lift struts. There were no injuries reported.

Probable cause

a delay in engine power response following an increase in throttle settings which led to an aerodynamic stall during a turning approach

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-10-15 Piper PA-18 accident near Wasilla, AK?

A private pilot experienced a loss of engine responsiveness during a turn on final approach, resulting in a stall and landing gear collapse.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-10-15 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N9146D, at Wasilla, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

a delay in engine power response following an increase in throttle settings which led to an aerodynamic stall during a turning approach

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20041215X01990. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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