N4387A

Substantial
None

PIPER PA18SS/N: 18-4795

Accident Details

Date
Sunday, July 23, 2017
NTSB Number
GAA17CA441
Location
Sterling, AK
Event ID
20170724X14351
Coordinates
60.529167, -150.829162
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing in crosswind conditions.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
18-4795
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1956
Model / ICAO
PA18SPA18
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
PA-18S-150

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
MCGAHAN CODY
Address
PO BOX 7100
City
NIKISKI
State / Zip Code
AK 99635-7100
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while landing in crosswind conditions, as the tailwheel set down the airplane veered left. Subsequently, the airplane exited the left side of the runway, struck a well head and came to rest nose down.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The automated weather observation system about 7 nautical miles from the accident site reported, about the time of the accident, the wind was 280° at 11 knots. The pilot landed on runway 26.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA17CA441