On 13 Sep 2014, a PIPER PA 18-150 A150 operated by ADAMS GUIDING SERVICE was involved in an aviation accident near Aniak, 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 separation of the wheel axle, resulting in a collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A tailwheel airplane sustained substantial damage after the right main landing gear axle separated during a crosswind landing at a remote, rough off-airport site.
Accident Details
A pilot was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane at a remote, rough, and uneven off-airport site. The landing required a correction for a left crosswind of 15 to 20 mph. During the landing roll, the pilot reported that the wind pushed the airplane to the left, resulting in a side load on the main landing gear. This side load caused the right main landing gear wheel axle to separate. Subsequently, the right wing struck the ground.
Damage
The right wing sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.