Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain directional control of the airplane resulting in a separation of the wheel axle, resulting in a collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was landing in a tailwheel-equipped airplane at a remote, rough and uneven off-airport site, which required a correction for a 15 to 20 mph left crosswind. He stated that during the landing roll the wind pushed the airplane to the left, which resulted in a side load on the main landing gear, and the right main landing gear wheel axle separated. The right wing subsequently struck the ground, sustaining substantial damage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC14CA080 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 13, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Aniak, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- None (NA)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA 18-150
- N-number
- N9877D
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1957
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Other work use
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.