28 Jan 2019: Piper PA 18A 135

28 Jan 2019: Piper PA 18A 135 — Unknown operator

No fatalities • McGrath, AK, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in the landing gear collapsing.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot of the ski-equipped airplane reported that, while landing off-airport on a snow-covered field, he side loaded the landing gear on the left side against a large "tussock" hidden by the snow. The left landing gear folded under the airplane, causing the left wingtip to drop into the snow and impact a snow-covered tussock.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

  • cause Decision related to condition
  • cause Pilot
  • Effect on equipment
  • Pilot
  • Contributed to outcome

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 130/07kt, vis 10sm

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