No fatalities

14 Aug 2009: PIPER PA-18-150 — Alaska Flyers — Kaktovik, AK

Kaktovik, AK, United States

On 14 Aug 2009, a PIPER PA-18-150 operated by Alaska Flyers was involved in an aviation accident near Kaktovik, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control and collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 13 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

During a personal cross-country flight, the pilot reported that during takeoff from an off-airport site, the airplane hit a bump, became airborne prematurely, and upon settling, the right main landing gear collapsed after landing in a depression, leading to further damage.

Accident Narrative

The pilot, who held an airline transport pilot certificate, was operating the airplane under Title 14, CFR Part 91 for a personal cross-country flight. According to the pilot, during takeoff from an off-airport site, the airplane encountered a bump and became airborne prematurely. As the airplane settled back to the ground, the right main landing gear wheel landed in a depression, causing the right main landing gear to collapse. The right wing subsequently struck the ground, and the airplane veered to the right. This maneuver side-loaded the left main landing gear, which also collapsed, allowing the left wing to hit the ground.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no known mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident. The pilot did not submit the required NTSB Form 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report.

Damage and Investigation

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. Due to the remote location of the accident site, the airplane has not been examined by the National Transportation Safety Board.

Contributing factors

Causes

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot

Other contributing factors

Decision related to condition