Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-12 near Chugiak, AK — 2010-05-22

Final reportANC10CA042
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Date
2010-05-22
Location
Chugiak, AK, USA
Airport
A13
Aircraft
PIPER PA-12
Registration
N2581M
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain a proper glide path while landing, which resulted in an in-flight collision with a tree, and the collapse of the main landing gear during touchdown.

NTSB narrative

The private pilot was landing at a remote airstrip surrounded by trees at the completion of a Title 14, CFR Part 91 personal flight. The pilot stated that during the approach, just before touchdown, he allowed the airplane to drift left of his intended approach path, and the left main landing gear wheel struck a tree, which yawed the airplane to the left. During touchdown, the right main landing gear collapsed, followed by the collapse of the left main landing gear. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings, fuselage and empennage. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

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