Casualties unknown

Aircraft N62744 Collides with Ground During Aerial Hunting Flight

Koyukuk, AK, US

On March 14, 1985, a Piper PA-18 (registration N62744) was involved in an aviation accident near Koyukuk, 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

During an aerial hunting flight, pilot of N62744 stalled while maneuvering near a wolverine, resulting in ground impact. Witnesses noted excessive speed. The pilot was not using the installed shoulder harness.

Incident Overview

A Piper PA-18, registration N62744, was involved in an accident while participating in an aerial hunting flight with three other aircraft. The pilot was maneuvering the aircraft near a wolverine on the ground. Witnesses from two of the other aircraft reported that the pilot was flying too fast during the approach.

Sequence of Events

The pilot announced over the radio his intention to make another pass. Subsequently, the aircraft entered a steep climbing turn to the left. At approximately 150 feet above ground level, the aircraft stalled and then collided with the ground.

Examination Findings

An examination of the crash site revealed that the aircraft impacted the ground left wing first, with little or no rotation. It was also determined that the pilot/owner was not using a shoulder harness that was installed in the aircraft at the time of the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35806. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.