On May 29, 2012, a PIPER PA-18-150 was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing in a gusting crosswind. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot lost directional control during landing when a gust pushed the airplane left, causing it to strike trees and suffer substantial damage to the right wing and elevator.
Accident
The pilot was on final approach to runway 04 when, just prior to touchdown, a gust of wind pushed the airplane to the left. The left wingtip subsequently struck trees and brush, causing the airplane to turn left, during which the right wing and right elevator contacted the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and right elevator.
Wind Conditions
Wind at the time was estimated from 100 degrees at 10 to 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots.
Mechanical Inspection
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.
Contributing factors
Causes
PilotCrosswind correction — Not attained/maintained
What happened in the 29 May 2012 PIPER PA-18-150 accident near Anchorage, AK?
A pilot lost directional control during landing when a gust pushed the airplane left, causing it to strike trees and suffer substantial damage to the right wing and elevator.
Were there any fatalities in the 29 May 2012 PIPER PA-18-150 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 May 2012 involved a PIPER PA-18-150, at Anchorage, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing in a gusting crosswind.
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