Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Forgetting Full Power During Uphill Takeoff After Wind Change (N1846P)

Beluga, AK, US

On June 16, 1991, a Piper PA-22 (registration N1846P) operated by Cecil P. Pugmire was involved in an aviation accident near Beluga, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot stated that he forgot to increase the power for takeoff after conducting a partial power run-up. 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

According to the pilot, after takeoff the headwind became a tailwind, the airplane stopped climbing and impacted trees. The pilot stated he did not use full power because he forgot to increase power after a partial power run-up, and the takeoff was uphill.

Pilot's Account

The pilot provided a description of the incident. According to the pilot, the takeoff was performed on an uphill incline. A partial power run-up was completed, but thereafter the pilot neglected to increase the engine power to the maximum setting for the takeoff. Consequently, the airplane took off with less than full power.

Wind Change and Climb

Immediately after becoming airborne and while the airplane was still just above the treetops, the wind condition changed. The headwind that was present during the takeoff roll shifted to a tailwind. With the reduced power and the adverse tailwind, the airplane was unable to continue its climb.

Impact

The airplane ultimately descended and impacted the trees. The pilot's statement did not include any information about the condition of the airplane or any injuries.

Probable cause

The pilot stated that he forgot to increase the power for takeoff after conducting a partial power run-up.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17150. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.