Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll when the left main landing gear wheel got caught in a ditch, which resulted in a subsequent nose-over.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the landing roll on a private grass airstrip, the left main landing gear wheel became caught in the ditch that was obscured by long grass along the edge of the runway. He subsequently lost directional control, and the airplane rolled into the ditch and nosed over, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings, vertical stabilizer, and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC18CA068 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 25, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Wasilla, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Todds Strip (5AK5)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA18
- N-number
- N5392Y
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1964
- 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.