On 16 Nov 2008, a PIPER PA-18 operated by Steve Eaton was involved in an aviation accident near Foraker, OK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the precautionary landing, with wind gusts acting as a contributing factor. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot performing a precautionary landing due to engine issues lost directional control of a Piper PA-18 in Foraker, Oklahoma.
What happened
On November 16, 2008, a Piper PA-18 was en route when the pilot observed the engine began running roughly. After being unable to resolve the engine issue, the pilot decided to perform a precautionary landing in a field near Foraker, Oklahoma. During the landing sequence, the pilot attempted to compensate for crosswind gusts, which were estimated to be between 10 and 15 miles per hour. Upon touchdown, the aircraft nosed over. There were no injuries resulting from the accident.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the aircraft N7096D revealed that the fuselage was buckled and the wing struts were bent.
Probable cause
The accident was caused by the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the precautionary landing, with wind gusts acting as a contributing factor.
Contributing factors
Causes
Crosswind correction — Not attained/maintainedPilot