No fatalities

2 Oct 2010: PIPER PA-12 — WOOLACE JAMES L — Chena Hot Springs, AK

Chena Hot Springs, AK, United States

On 2 Oct 2010, a PIPER PA-12 operated by WOOLACE JAMES L was involved in an aviation accident near Chena Hot Springs, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions during landing, which resulted in a loss of directional control and collision with trees. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot reported insufficient rudder during a crosswind landing, causing the tailwheel airplane to veer left and strike trees. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and empennage.

Accident Details

The private pilot was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane on a gravel-covered runway with a left crosswind. The pilot reported using insufficient rudder on touchdown, and the airplane subsequently "curved" to the left. In an attempt to correct the situation and abort the landing, the pilot added power. However, the airplane's right wing contacted trees and brush "well below flying speed," causing the aircraft to pivot to the right. The airplane continued tracking right, exited the gravel runway, and came to rest at the base of an embankment.

Aircraft Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing assembly and empennage. No other damage was reported.

Post-Accident Observations

The pilot noted that there were no mechanical anomalies with the airplane during the time frame of the accident. The flight was conducted as a personal flight under the provisions of Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.

Contributing factors

Causes

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedResponse/compensation

Other contributing factors

Contributed to outcome