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Soft Spot on Remote Airstrip Leads to Collision with Creek (N5061G)

Palmer, AK, US

On April 30, 2005, a Bellanca 7GCBC (registration N5061G) operated by David B. More was involved in an aviation accident near Palmer, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a loss of control during the landing roll, and a collision with willows and a creek bank. A factor associated with the accident was the soft landing area. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot's landing on a remote airstrip encountered a soft spot, causing the airplane to veer left into a gully and creek. Despite adding power, the aircraft hit willows and settled into the creek, striking the bank.

Accident Summary

A private pilot was landing on a remote airstrip situated next to a river when the left main wheel of the airplane encountered a soft spot in the ground. This caused the aircraft to pull to the left toward a deep gully and creek.

Pilot Actions

In an attempt to avoid the gully and creek, the pilot applied power. However, the airplane then entered a patch of willows, settled into the creek, and struck the bank.

Damage Assessment

As a result of the impact, the airplane sustained structural damage to the wings, fuselage, and landing gear. No further details regarding the extent of damage or other aspects of the accident were provided.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050614X00768. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.