On August 10, 2006, a Piper PA-12 (registration N7663H) was involved in an aviation accident near Coldfoot, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing area, which resulted in an in-flight collision with terrain during an aborted landing. Factors associated with the accident were wind gusts, and rough and uneven terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot aborted a landing on a mountain ridgeline after touching down beyond the intended point. A gust of wind and a large rock led to a collision that collapsed the landing gear and damaged the wings, fuselage, and empennage.
Accident Details
A private pilot was conducting a business flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91 in a tundra tire-equipped airplane. The pilot was attempting to land on a mountain ridgeline. During the landing, the pilot inadvertently touched down approximately 10 feet beyond his intended touchdown point. In response, he applied full engine power to abort the landing.
Pilot Account
After becoming airborne, a gust of wind pushed the airplane toward the ground. The right main wheel then struck a large rock. Subsequently, the airplane collided with the ground, causing the main landing gear to collapse. The pilot noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.
Damage
The airplane sustained structural damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage as a result of the collision.