Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing roll, which resulted in a ground loop and impact with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the landing roll on a remote gravel bar, the airplane veered to the right. He applied left rudder but was unable to correct and the airplane ground looped to the right, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing, left aileron and elevator. 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 ANC22LA074 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 30, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Palmer, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-18-135
- N-number
- N1129
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1954
- 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.