On 31 Aug 2008, a PIPER PA-22 operated by Jeremy T. Amsrtup was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing site, resulting in a main landing gear collapse during the landing roll. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A private pilot landing a tailwheel airplane on a ridgeline experienced a longer-than-expected landing roll, leading to rough terrain and a collapsed left main landing gear leg, damaging the left wing and lift struts.
Accident Details
A private pilot was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane on a ridgeline. According to the pilot, after touchdown, the landing roll was longer than anticipated. The airplane subsequently rolled into an area of rough and uneven terrain. During the roll, the left main landing gear wheel struck a rock, causing the left main landing gear leg to collapse. The impact resulted in structural damage to the left wing and left wing lift struts. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.
Investigation
The investigation revealed that the pilot had been performing a landing on a ridgeline. The extended landing roll led to contact with uneven ground, contributing to the gear failure. The airplane sustained structural damage but no other details were provided.