Casualties unknown

Tundra-Tire Equipped Airplane Overruns on Mountain Ridge, Strikes Ground (N1087A)

Delta Junction, AK, US

On May 23, 2005, a Piper PA-18 (registration N1087A) was involved in an aviation accident near Delta Junction, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in an overrun. A factor contributing to the accident was rough and uneven terrain. 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

A commercial pilot transporting hunting supplies landed a tundra-tire equipped airplane on a remote mountain ridge, overran the intended area, and a depression caused the right wing and propeller to strike the ground.

Accident Overview

A commercial certificated pilot was transporting hunting and camp supplies to a remote area in support of a hunting party. The pilot landed a tundra tire-equipped airplane on a remote mountain ridge where previous wheel tracks were visible. During the landing roll, the pilot reported that when he applied the brakes, the large tundra tires began to bounce over the rough terrain. He was careful not to apply excessive braking action. The airplane overran the pilot's intended landing area, and the right main tire encountered a depression. As a result, the right wing and propeller struck the ground.

Damage and Repairs

The aircraft mechanic who repaired the airplane reported that he repaired the leading edge of the right wing and replaced a wing nose rib. No other damage was specified.

Pilot Information

The pilot held a commercial certificate and was operating the flight in support of a hunting party, carrying supplies to a remote location. No further details about the pilot or flight experience were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050624X00868. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.