Casualties unknown

Aircraft Collides with Power Lines and Crashes into Lake After Aborted Takeoff (N63837)

Wasilla, AK, US

On September 11, 1982, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N63837) operated by Steven D. Lewis was involved in an aviation accident near Wasilla, AK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

After refueling on Anderson Lake, a pilot aborted a takeoff due to slow acceleration, drained fuel, then attempted another takeoff but encountered possible engine power loss and wind shear, colliding with transmission lines and crashing into King Lake.

Incident Overview

An aircraft landed on Anderson Lake to obtain fuel. After refueling, the pilot initiated a takeoff but aborted it when the aircraft was slow to accelerate. Approximately 20 gallons of fuel were then drained from the aircraft.

Second Takeoff Attempt

The pilot began another takeoff by making a step turn to the departure heading. He stated that he lifted off at 45 miles per hour with half flaps. According to the pilot, it appeared the engine was not developing full power, and he possibly encountered a wind shear condition. After reaching about 100 feet above ground level, the plane would not climb further.

Collision and Crash

Subsequently, the plane collided with transmission lines along a road that divides Anderson Lake and King Lake. After striking the lines, the aircraft crashed into King Lake.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that the engine seemed to lack full power and that a wind shear condition may have been present. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or occupant status were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04206. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.