N124GS

Substantial
None

PIPER PA-18S/N: 5287

Accident Details

Date
Monday, October 10, 2011
NTSB Number
ANC12CA003
Location
Skwentna, AK
Event ID
20111014X94756
Coordinates
61.908889, -150.868896
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's inadequate clearance from a tree during an off-airport landing.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
5287
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1956
Model / ICAO
PA-18PA18
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
PA-18

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
NICHOLSON MICHAEL P
Address
PO BOX 80583
City
FAIRBANKS
State / Zip Code
AK 99708-0583
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that just prior to landing at an off-airport site, he was distracted by sunlight reflecting off a nearby river. As the main landing gear touched down, the right wing hit a tree root and the rear wing spar sustained substantial damage. The pilot indicated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane. He stated that the accident could have been prevented had he landed the opposite direction, because there were no obstacles on that approach.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC12CA003