Casualties unknown

Airplane Strikes Log During Precautionary Landing in Dry Riverbed (N35588)

Carefree, AZ, US

On January 27, 2006, a Piper J5 (registration N35588) was involved in an aviation accident near Carefree, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for the precautionary landing and failure to avoid obstacles during the landing roll. 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

An airplane struck a log during landing rollout in a dry riverbed, causing the right landing gear strut to collapse. The pilot reported making a precautionary landing to troubleshoot engine problems.

Event Details

An airplane was involved in an accident during a precautionary landing in a dry riverbed. According to reports, the airplane struck a log while rolling out after touchdown. The incident prompted notification to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) after the aircraft was observed in the riverbed.

Inspection Findings

FAA inspectors arrived at the location the following day and examined the airplane. They found it situated in the riverbed with a collapsed right landing gear strut. Evidence on the ground showed tracks in a straight line from the touchdown point to the point of impact, with no indications of a turn having been made.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that the landing was precautionary, initiated to troubleshoot engine problems. No further details about the nature of the engine issues were provided.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060310X00284. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.