Event Details
On June 30, 2025, at approximately 1630 Alaska daylight time, a Piper PA-22-150 airplane, registration N3609Z, was substantially damaged in an accident near Chinitna Bay, Alaska. The aircraft was being operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The pilot reported no injuries.
Narrative
According to the pilot, while en route, he heard two or three loud “thuds” followed by a reduction in rudder control. The airplane began to yaw back and forth, and the yawing increased when engine power was added. The pilot decided to perform a precautionary landing on a remote beach. During the landing roll, the right wheel touched down first, causing the airplane to veer to the right. The pilot stated that he had no rudder control and attempted to correct with left aileron, but the airplane nosed over.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to both wings, the lift struts, and the rudder.
Investigation
Examination of the airframe is pending the recovery of the wreckage.