On September 5, 2009, a PIPER PA-18 operated by JEFFREY W. CROLL was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s decision to land on unsuitable terrain, which resulted in a loss of control and a collision with trees. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A private pilot landed a tailwheel airplane on a soft, rough gravel runway. The airplane veered right, struck trees, pivoted 180 degrees, and sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
Accident Summary
A private pilot was concluding a local personal flight under Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 when the accident occurred. The pilot was landing the tailwheel-equipped airplane on a soft, rough, and uneven gravel runway. Immediately upon touchdown, the airplane veered to the right. The right wing then struck trees, causing the airplane to pivot 180 degrees to the right. Subsequently, the left wing struck the ground, resulting in substantial damage to that wing.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane. In a written report to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the pilot noted that the accident might have been avoided if he had landed on the first part of the airstrip where the runway was wider. No other details regarding the flight or conditions were provided by the pilot.
Contributing factors
Causes
PilotDecision related to conditionPerformance/control parameters — Not attained/maintained
What happened in the 5 Sept 2009 PIPER PA-18 accident near Fairbanks, AK?
A private pilot landed a tailwheel airplane on a soft, rough gravel runway. The airplane veered right, struck trees, pivoted 180 degrees, and sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
Were there any fatalities in the 5 Sept 2009 PIPER PA-18 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Sept 2009 involved a PIPER PA-18, operated by JEFFREY W. CROLL, at Fairbanks, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot’s decision to land on unsuitable terrain, which resulted in a loss of control and a collision with trees.
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