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Floatplane Takeoff Ends with Hard Landing in Marshy Area (N7096K)

Wasilla, AK, US

On July 16, 1992, a Piper PA-20 (registration N7096K) operated by Martin M. Laster was involved in an aviation accident near Wasilla, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER PREFLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION, AND HIS DELAYED ABORTED TAKEOFF. CONTRIBUTING WAS THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO USE THE AIRPLANE PERFORMANCE DATA. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, a floatplane could not climb above 5-10 feet. The pilot cut the throttle and landed hard in a marshy area. The pilot lacked a seaplane rating. The aircraft was near maximum gross weight on a hot, windless day.

Incident Overview

A floatplane experienced difficulties during takeoff, failing to climb higher than 5 to 10 feet above the water. The pilot reduced power, and the aircraft made a hard landing in a small pond-like marshy area immediately beyond the lake from which it had departed.

Pilot and Aircraft Details

The pilot did not hold a seaplane rating. According to the pilot, the airplane was loaded to within approximately 50 pounds of its maximum certificated gross weight.

Environmental Conditions

Both the pilot and a witness reported that it was a hot day with no wind.

Outcome

The aircraft landed hard in the marshy terrain. No further information about damage, injuries, or subsequent events is provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jul 1992 Piper PA-20 accident near Wasilla, AK?

During takeoff, a floatplane could not climb above 5-10 feet. The pilot cut the throttle and landed hard in a marshy area. The pilot lacked a seaplane rating. The aircraft was near maximum gross weight on a hot, windless day.

Were there any fatalities in the 16 Jul 1992 Piper PA-20 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jul 1992 involved a Piper PA-20, registration N7096K, operated by Martin M. Laster, at Wasilla, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S IMPROPER PREFLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION, AND HIS DELAYED ABORTED TAKEOFF. CONTRIBUTING WAS THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO USE THE AIRPLANE PERFORMANCE DATA.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15035. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.