Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, resulting in contact with terrain, and a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was landing his tailwheel-equipped airplane at an off-airport beach landing site. During the landing flare, a gust of wind pushed the airplane to the left, and the left wing contacted the sloping beach, resulting in a ground loop. Both wings sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC13CA045 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 13, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Nikiski, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-18A
- N-number
- N2496P
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
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.