Probable cause
The pilot's decision to taxi on unsuitable terrain after landing, which resulted in an encounter with a washed out ditch.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he diverted to an un-published airstrip along his route due to poor visibility. The pilot further reported that after a normal landing, he was taxing to reposition the airplane and the right main landing gear dropped into a washed out ditch. The right wing impacted the ground and was substantially damaged.
The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunction or failure with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA458 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 26, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Central, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA18
- N-number
- N9575D
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1958
- 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.