Accident Overview
A pilot conducting a public use flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91 landed at a remote mining airstrip. The airstrip, which slopes uphill, measures approximately 1,000 feet in length and 16 feet in width.
Landing and Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, during the landing roll, the right main landing gear tire dropped into a rut. This caused the airplane to veer to the right and into several willow trees.
Examination of the Airstrip
An air safety investigator from the Department of the Interior, Aviation Management Directorate, Aviation Safety Division examined the accident airstrip. The investigator reported that the airplane's tailwheel first contacted the ground approximately 53 feet before the beginning of the airstrip. The main landing gear tires made contact with the airstrip surface about 75 feet after the initial tailwheel strike. The propeller then struck the ground about 52 feet beyond the approach end of the airstrip, which was approximately 30 feet from the point of initial main wheel contact.
Post-Impact and Inspection
Following the propeller strikes, the airplane veered to the right and passed through several willow trees, which were 2 to 4 feet tall. An inspection of the airplane at a Department of Interior repair facility revealed damage to an inboard stabilizer rib, which required a major repair.
Probable Cause
No probable cause was stated in the source.