Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes During Go-Around Attempt After Bouncing on Runway (N5408Y)

Bear Creek, AK, US

On June 24, 1984, a Piper PA-18-180 (registration N5408Y) operated by Mark D Haneberg was involved in an aviation accident near Bear Creek, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate engine power during a go-around, which was attributed to fuel exhaustion. 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

An aircraft bounced upon touchdown during landing, prompting a go-around attempt that failed due to insufficient engine power. The plane subsequently crashed into a river bank while attempting to regain altitude.

What happened

The aircraft impacted a river bank during an attempted go-around maneuver. According to the pilot's report, the initial touchdown resulted in a bounce off the runway surface. In response, the pilot applied full throttle to initiate a climb.

Despite the power application, the engine responded with a maximum rotation speed of approximately 1600 RPM, which was insufficient for sustained flight. The aircraft bounced a second time within the landing area before mushing across the river and coming to rest against the bank.

The investigation

Post-acc examination of the fuel system revealed critically low quantities in both wing tanks. The left tank contained only 5 gallons of fuel, while the right tank held just 3 gallons.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate engine power during a go-around, which was attributed to fuel exhaustion.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39795. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.