On 13 Oct 2019, a Piper PA18 150 was involved in an aviation accident near Moose Pass, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper approach, which resulted in his failure to maintain clearance from a tree while landing in dusk conditions, and his subsequent loss of directional control, which resulted in a runway excursion. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot attempting to land at a remote airstrip in fading light struck a tree with the left wing, causing substantial damage to the wing and fuselage. No mechanical failures were reported.
Incident Overview
During a landing attempt at a remote airstrip under fading light conditions, a pilot experienced a collision with terrain. Just before touchdown, the airplane's left wing impacted a tree. The aircraft subsequently exited the runway, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operations. In the recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the pilot stated that the accident may have been prevented if a steeper final approach had been flown or if more daylight had been available.
Aircraft Damage
The left wing and fuselage sustained substantial damage. No other damage was reported.
Contributing factors
PilotDescent/approach/glide path — Not attained/maintainedEffect on personnelEffect on operationDirectional control — Not attained/maintained