Casualties unknown

Aircraft Stalls After Engine Fails to Respond Following Moose Encounter (N8698Z)

Kenai, AK, US

On September 3, 1983, a Cessna P206C (registration N8698Z) operated by Paul Hunt was involved in an aviation accident near Kenai, 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 reported that after descending and circling a moose at about 300 feet AGL, the engine failed to respond when power was added for climb, resulting in a stall and impact with terrain.

Accident Details

According to the pilot, the aircraft was in a reduced power descent when the pilot observed a moose and began circling at an altitude of approximately 300 feet above ground level (AGL). When the pilot added throttle for a climb, the engine failed to respond to the increase in power but continued to operate at the reduced power level. Unable to climb, the pilot attempted a reduced power glide to reach a safe landing area. During the glide, the aircraft stalled and impacted rough terrain.

Pilot's Account

The pilot stated that after the engine did not respond to throttle input, the only option was to attempt a landing under reduced power. The stall and subsequent impact occurred during this glide. No further details about the pilot's actions or the aircraft's behavior were provided in the source.

Inspection Findings

The aircraft was overdue for its annual inspection at the time of the accident. However, an examination found no evidence of a malfunction or failure in the aircraft's powerplant or associated systems. The source did not specify the aircraft type, registration, operator, or location, nor did it mention any injuries or damage beyond the impact with terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Sept 1983 Cessna P206C accident near Kenai, AK?

A pilot reported that after descending and circling a moose at about 300 feet AGL, the engine failed to respond when power was added for climb, resulting in a stall and impact with terrain.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Sept 1983 involved a Cessna P206C, registration N8698Z, operated by Paul Hunt, at Kenai, AK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44387. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.