Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes After Encountering Downdraft During Takeoff from Hay Field (N5127Y)

Palmer, AK, US

On September 8, 1984, a Piper PA-18 (registration N5127Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Palmer, 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

A pilot reported losing airspeed and settling into trees after encountering a downdraft while maneuvering to avoid a tall tree during takeoff from a hay field.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that the accident occurred during a takeoff from a hay field. The departure was to the east, towards trees that were up to 80 feet tall. The wind was estimated by the pilot as a right quartering headwind at 15 knots, with gusts up to 25 knots. According to the pilot, just before reaching the area where the trees were located, the aircraft encountered a downdraft. In an effort to avoid a tall tree, the pilot executed a maneuver. However, during this maneuver, the pilot was unable to maintain the aircraft's airspeed. Subsequently, the aircraft settled into the trees and crashed.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40941. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.