N2581M

Substantial
None

PIPER PA-12S/N: 12-1049

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, May 22, 2010
NTSB Number
ANC10CA042
Location
Chugiak, AK
Event ID
20100525X15324
Coordinates
61.336666, -148.986663
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
3
Total Aboard
3

Probable Cause and Findings

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.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
12-1049
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1947
Model / ICAO
PA-12PA12
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
3
FAA Model
PA-12

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
SPENCER DAVID W
Address
11000 VOSIKOF PL
City
ANCHORAGE
State / Zip Code
AK 99507-6463
Country
United States

Analysis

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.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC10CA042