Casualties unknown

Piper PA-18 Collides with ATV Occupied by Children During Landing Roll (N6978B)

Levelock, AK, US

On July 26, 1987, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N6978B) operated by Jerold Lee Vantrease was involved in an aviation accident near Levelock, 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 Piper PA-18 struck three children on an ATV that entered the runway during landing roll at an unattended airport. Tracks alongside the runway indicated frequent vehicle use.

Accident Narrative

During the landing roll of a Piper PA-18 airplane at an unattended airport, three children riding an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) pulled onto the runway. The right side of the aircraft struck the ATV. The pilot attempted to avoid the vehicle but was unable to stop before the collision.

Runway Conditions

Tracks observed alongside the runways indicated that various vehicles used them as a matter of convenience. These tracks were not level or straight, and many showed evidence that the vehicles frequently pulled onto the runways, which were smooth surfaced. Additionally, there were numerous areas outside the runway edges where an individual's view of the runway would be obstructed.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31373. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.