On June 21, 1992, a Piper PA-12 (registration N7850H) operated by Stephen And Gwen Mathis was involved in an aviation accident near Kantishna, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff taxi in strong crosswinds and low-light conditions, resulting in the left wing tip striking trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot taxied for takeoff at dusk with strong crosswinds when the left wing tip struck trees. The accident occurred during a period of restricted night flight visibility.
What happened
The pilot reported encountering strong crosswinds while taxiing the aircraft for takeoff on the airstrip. At approximately 45 miles per hour, the left wing tip struck trees. The accident occurred during dusk, with the sun's elevation at -3.5 degrees below the horizon. The pilot had a restriction on his pilot certificate prohibiting night flight.
Findings
The left wing tip struck trees during the takeoff taxi phase. The pilot was operating under a night flight restriction. The strong crosswinds may have contributed to the loss of control or situational awareness during the low-light conditions.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff taxi in strong crosswinds and low-light conditions, resulting in the left wing tip striking trees.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 21 Jun 1992 Piper PA-12 accident near Kantishna, AK?
A pilot taxied for takeoff at dusk with strong crosswinds when the left wing tip struck trees. The accident occurred during a period of restricted night flight visibility.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Jun 1992 involved a Piper PA-12, registration N7850H, operated by Stephen And Gwen Mathis, at Kantishna, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff taxi in strong crosswinds and low-light conditions, resulting in the left wing tip striking trees.
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