Casualties unknown

Tailwheel Airplane Strikes Trees During Landing at Off-Airport Site (N18VF)

Hope, AK, US

On July 6, 2005, a Piper PA-18-160 (registration N18VF) operated by Kenneth W. Wolter was involved in an aviation accident near Hope, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudged distance and altitude during an approach to land at an off-airport landing site, which resulted in an undershoot, and subsequent in-flight collision with trees and tundra-covered terrain. A factor in the accident was trees. 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 solo private pilot inadvertently descended below the intended glide path while landing a tailwheel airplane at an off-airport site, causing the left wing to strike trees, followed by additional damage.

Introduction

A tailwheel-equipped airplane, operated by a solo private pilot, was involved in an accident during landing at an off-airport site. The area surrounding the landing site was characterized by trees. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical anomalies.

Sequence of Events

During the landing approach, just before touchdown, the pilot inadvertently allowed the airplane to descend below the intended glide path. As a result, the left wing struck a stand of trees. The impact caused the airplane to pivot to the left. Subsequently, the right wing and the right horizontal stabilizer struck the tundra-covered terrain.

Damage Assessment

The accident resulted in structural damage to the airplane. Specifically, the right wing spar and the right horizontal stabilizer sustained damage. No other details about the extent of the damage were provided in the source.

Pilot's Report

The pilot noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane. The source did not provide any additional information regarding pilot condition or other factors.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050916X01478. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.