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Tailwheel Airplane Veers on Graded Gravel Runway During Landing

Wasilla, AK, United States

On May 14, 2016, a CESSNA 180 H was involved in an aviation accident near Wasilla, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a collision with terrain. Contributing to the accident was the loose dirt and gravel deposited in the center of the runway. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A tailwheel airplane veered left on landing due to excess dirt and gravel on a recently graded runway, striking the right wing and exiting onto an adjacent paved runway.

Accident Summary

During a landing on a gravel surfaced runway, a tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a loss of directional control. The pilot reported that the runway had been recently graded on both sides, resulting in excess dirt and gravel being deposited along the centerline. Upon touchdown, the airplane veered sharply to the left. The right wing then impacted the runway surface. The aircraft continued leftward and exited the runway, where the right main tire contacted the paved surface of an adjacent runway. This caused the airplane to snap back to the right.

Damage

The accident resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and right aileron. No other damage was reported.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot also described the runway condition as a contributing factor to the loss of control.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Other contributing factors

Effect on equipment

Related events

Same aircraft family

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