On 13 Sep 2018, a Piper PA18 150 was involved in an aviation accident near Kenai, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard, bounced landing and subsequent loss of directional control on an unimproved airstrip. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A tailwheel-equipped airplane sustained substantial damage after a hard landing, bounce, and veer into trees during an approach to clear an unimproved airstrip.
Accident Description
The pilot reported that the purpose of the flight was to land at an unimproved airstrip and then clear it by removing small trees and brush. During the approach, the pilot made a relatively steep descent with full flaps. Upon touchdown, the tailwheel-equipped airplane landed hard and bounced. After the bounce, the airplane touched down again angled to the left and veered off the runway to the left during the roll on the uneven, dirt surface. Subsequently, the left wing impacted a tree, and the airplane pivoted into an adjacent tree.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Causes
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot