Casualties unknown

Pilot Lands in Alder Bushes After Unable to Outclimb Terrain on Departure (N3516P)

Oshetna River, AK, US

On June 15, 1992, a Piper PA-22 (registration N3516P) operated by Jonathan R. King was involved in an aviation accident near Oshetna River, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE TAILWIND AND THE PILOT NOT UNDERSTANDING THE EFFECTS. FACTORS RELATING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE ATTEMPTED PRECAUTIONARY LANDING AND THE HIGH VEGETATION IN THE FORCED LANDING AREA. 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 departing a one-way airstrip with a quartering tailwind was unable to outclimb a bluff and surrounding terrain, turned downwind, and landed in alder bushes. The airplane burned after landing; no mechanical deficiencies were reported.

Departure and Terrain Encounter

A pilot was departing a one-way in and one-way out airstrip when encountering a quartering tailwind. After lift-off, the pilot was unable to outclimb a nearby bluff and the surrounding terrain.

Maneuver and Landing

In response to the inability to gain sufficient altitude, the pilot turned the airplane downwind. Despite this maneuver, the climb performance remained inadequate. The pilot then elected to land in an area of alder bushes.

Post-Impact Fire

Following the landing, the airplane caught fire and burned. The extent of damage to the airplane was not specified, but the fire consumed the aircraft.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane prior to or during the flight. No other information regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, date, or time of day was provided.

Injuries and Occupants

The number of occupants and any injuries were not mentioned in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14757. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.