On 3 Jul 2009, a PIPER PA-18-150 operated by KAUFFMAN LOREN C was involved in an aviation accident near Homer, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's excessive airspeed during approach to compensate for turbulence, resulting in a hard landing and runway overrun. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot landing at an off-airport site surrounded by trees experienced a hard landing, bounced, attempted a go-around but could not clear trees, and collided with brush, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing.
Accident Description
The pilot was landing at an off-airport site that was surrounded by trees. During the approach, he increased the approach airspeed due to turbulence. The airplane landed hard and bounced. The pilot added power to abort the landing, but realized he could not climb over the trees at the end of the landing area, so he closed the engine throttle. As the airplane touched down again, it continued off the end of the site and collided with brush.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane. He stated that he should have used a slower approach airspeed or performed a go-around.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing spar and aileron.