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Casualties unknown

Pilot stalls aircraft during go-around attempt near tree line (N8688D)

Palmer, AK, US

On July 25, 1985, a Piper PA-18 (registration N8688D) was involved in an aviation accident near Palmer, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a go-around, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and collision with trees. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempted to land in a field surrounded by tall trees but stalled the aircraft during a go-around, striking the tree line at low altitude.

What happened

The pilot was attempting to land in a field that is surrounded by trees approximately 40 feet tall. During the approach, the pilot initiated a go-around maneuver. While executing this climb, the pilot reported getting behind the power curve, which resulted in an inability to clear the surrounding trees. The aircraft subsequently stalled and banked to the left, striking the tree line at an altitude of about 15 feet off the ground. The impact with the trees cushioned the fall before the aircraft slid down to the ground.

Findings

The primary factor in this incident was the pilot's loss of control due to aerodynamic stall during a low-altitude go-around in a confined area. The presence of tall vegetation surrounding the landing site significantly reduced the margin for error during the climb-out phase.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a go-around, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and collision with trees.
Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Jul 1985 Piper PA-18 accident near Palmer, AK?

A pilot attempted to land in a field surrounded by tall trees but stalled the aircraft during a go-around, striking the tree line at low altitude.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Jul 1985 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N8688D, at Palmer, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a go-around, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and collision with trees.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36962. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.