Probable cause
The loss of directional control during landing due to a flat nose wheel tire, resulting in a runway excursion and collision with trees.
NTSB analysis
The pilot said prior to landing that he extended the landing gear, and saw the nose wheel extended in a mirror on the engine nacelle. He said the nose tire appeared normal, but when it contacted the runway, he immediately knew it was flat. He said full opposite rudder and brake did not keep the airplane on the runway, and it rolled down an embankment. During the runway excursion the left wing spar was damaged.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC11LA006 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 22, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Saint Michael, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Saint Michael (PAMK)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dawn
Piper PA-31-350
- N-number
- N45052
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 135 (charter and commuter)
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.