Probable cause
The pilot's improper landing flare in crosswind conditions resulting in a gear leg collapse.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was landing in crosswind conditions and was using a right wing low technique for the wheel landing. Shortly after touchdown he heard the right gear leg pop and the strut collapsed. The gear support structure and associated gearbox were substantially damaged. Post accident examination of the strut attachment fitting by a Safety Board metallurgist revealed that the fracture faces displayed features and deformations consistent with overstress separations. The metallurgist reported that no indications of preexisting cracking or corrosion were detected. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the airplanes flight control systems prior to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09LA408 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 21, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Tacoma, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Tacoma Narrows (TIW)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-22-150
- N-number
- N6038D
- 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.