No fatalities

5 Sep 2014: PIPER PA 18-135 NO SERIES — Fairbanks, AK

Fairbanks, AK, United States

On 5 Sep 2014, a PIPER PA 18-135 NO SERIES was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain directional control of the airplane resulting in a runway excursion and collision with terrain. 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 tail wheel airplane experienced a crosswind-induced loss of control during flare, veered off the runway, and collided with trees. The pilot and passenger were uninjured. No mechanical issues were reported.

Incident Overview

The pilot of a tail wheel equipped airplane was returning from a cross-country flight. According to the pilot's report, the approach was stable with a slight headwind until the flare. During the flare, a crosswind lifted the left wing, causing the aircraft to begin exiting the runway environment.

Loss of Control

The pilot attempted to regain directional control using rudder, aileron, and power inputs, but these efforts were ineffective. The aircraft subsequently collided with trees.

Occupant Status

Both the pilot and passenger were uninjured in the accident.

Mechanical Condition

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotAttain/maintain not possible

Other contributing factors

Effect on operationContributed to outcome