On April 22, 1989, a Piper PA-18 (registration N1738A) operated by Niver, Mark A. was involved in an aviation accident near Talkeetna, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S CONTINUED VFR FLIGHT INTO INSTRUMENT METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS AND THE INADVERTANT STALL/MUSH OF THE AIRPLANE. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS ARE THE PILOT'S OVERCONFIDENCE, SELF-INDUCED PRESSURE, MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN AND WHITEOUT CONDITIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot and two passengers escaped with minor injuries after the pilot stalled the airplane about 30 feet above ground while attempting a go-around near Mount McKinley.
Incident Overview
A private pilot was flying with two passengers over the Ruth Glacier near Mount McKinley in an airplane designed for one passenger. During the flight, the pilot observed the word 'HELP' stamped in the snow by a group of mountain climbers, two of whom were injured. The pilot decided to land to offer assistance but encountered reduced visibility due to snow and low clouds.
Attempted Go-Around and Stall
After initiating a go-around, the pilot stalled the airplane approximately 30 feet above ground level (AGL). The airplane subsequently impacted the terrain. The pilot and both passengers sustained minor injuries in the occurrence.
Rescue and Aftermath
Following the accident, the pilot and passengers evacuated the airplane and made their way to a nearby cabin, where they awaited rescue along with the climbers. No further details about the rescue or the condition of the climbers were provided in the source.
What happened in the 22 Apr 1989 Piper PA-18 accident near Talkeetna, AK?
A private pilot and two passengers escaped with minor injuries after the pilot stalled the airplane about 30 feet above ground while attempting a go-around near Mount McKinley.
Were there any fatalities in the 22 Apr 1989 Piper PA-18 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Apr 1989 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N1738A, operated by Niver, Mark A., at Talkeetna, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S CONTINUED VFR FLIGHT INTO INSTRUMENT METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS AND THE INADVERTANT STALL/MUSH OF THE AIRPLANE. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS ARE THE PILOT'S OVERCONFIDENCE, SELF-INDUCED PRESSURE, MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN AND WHITEOUT CONDITIONS.
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