Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Carburetor Ice and Rough Runway in Moose Meat Transport Accident (N97451)

Near Sparrevohn, AK, US

On October 2, 1982, a Rockwell International STINSON 108 (registration N97451) operated by John D. Shockley was involved in an aviation accident near Near Sparrevohn, 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reports that after loading moose quarters, takeoff difficulties occurred due to carburetor ice and a rough runway, causing the aircraft to settle back at the strip's end.

Accident Overview

A pilot experienced a takeoff accident while transporting moose meat from an unimproved landing area. The pilot had shot a moose earlier in the morning, quartered the animal, and carried the meat to the landing area. After returning to his cabin for the aircraft, he landed and loaded two quarters into the back seat.

Sequence of Events

At 5:30 PM, with snow beginning to fall, the pilot taxied for takeoff without performing a run-up. During taxi, he encountered difficulty with windshield fogging but managed to clear it despite being in a hurry. Upon reaching the end of the strip, he immediately began the takeoff.

Takeoff and Outcome

The aircraft failed to accelerate properly during the takeoff roll and settled back to the surface at the end of the strip. The pilot believed that carburetor ice and the rough runway surface contributed to the lack of acceleration.

Pilot's Assessment

The pilot attributed the accident to carburetor ice and the rough condition of the unimproved landing area. No other factors have been identified in the report.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Oct 1982 Rockwell International STINSON 108 accident near Near Sparrevohn, AK?

A pilot reports that after loading moose quarters, takeoff difficulties occurred due to carburetor ice and a rough runway, causing the aircraft to settle back at the strip's end.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Oct 1982 involved a Rockwell International STINSON 108, registration N97451, operated by John D. Shockley, at Near Sparrevohn, AK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04226. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.