Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over During Takeoff from Lake (N8842D)

Kodiak, AK, US

On May 9, 1988, a Piper PA-22-160 (registration N8842D) was involved in an aviation accident near Kodiak, 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 lost control during takeoff from a lake, causing the aircraft to nose over on its back at the departure end. The pilot had a special VFR clearance due to weather conditions.

Accident Details

A pilot reported losing control during the takeoff run, resulting in the aircraft nosing over onto its back at the departure end of the lake. The pilot had been issued a special VFR clearance by Kodiak Tower due to existing weather conditions.

Pilot Account

According to the pilot, the water surface was flat and calm, which required a longer distance to become airborne. After becoming airborne, the pilot lowered the nose to gain airspeed, but the aircraft subsequently struck the water and lost momentum. While the pilot was deliberating whether to continue the takeoff, the aircraft impacted the shoreline and nosed over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25590. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.