22 May 2010: PIPER PA-12 — RICHARD N. SUTLIFF

22 May 2010: PIPER PA-12 — RICHARD N. SUTLIFF

No fatalities • Chugiak, AK, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain a proper glide path while landing, which resulted in an in-flight collision with a tree, and the collapse of the main landing gear during touchdown.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The private pilot was landing at a remote airstrip surrounded by trees at the completion of a Title 14, CFR Part 91 personal flight. The pilot stated that during the approach, just before touchdown, he allowed the airplane to drift left of his intended approach path, and the left main landing gear wheel struck a tree, which yawed the airplane to the left. During touchdown, the right main landing gear collapsed, followed by the collapse of the left main landing gear. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings, fuselage and empennage. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.

Contributing factors

  • Contributed to outcome
  • cause Descent/approach/glide path — Not attained/maintained

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 180/07kt, vis 10sm

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