Casualties unknown

Pilot Experiences Two Nose-Overs at Remote Airstrip (N3889P)

Eisenmenger Crk, AK, US

On August 13, 1992, a Piper PA-18A (registration N3889P) operated by Owen D. Brant was involved in an aviation accident near Eisenmenger Crk, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER PREFLIGHT PLANNING/PREPARATION, AND HIS FAILURE TO ATTAIN CLEARANCE OF THE HIGH VEGETATION DURING TAKEOFF. A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE HIGH VEGETATION. 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

During a landing at a short, unimproved strip, a pilot nosed over into a creek, causing minor damage. The next day, after lengthening the strip, a takeoff attempt ended with the plane hitting tundra and nosing over again after landing gear contacted bushes.

Initial Landing Incident

On the day prior to the accident, the pilot landed at a remote, unimproved airstrip. At the time, the strip measured between 200 and 250 feet in length. During the landing, the pilot applied heavy braking, which caused the airplane to nose over into a small creek. This incident resulted in minor damage to the aircraft.

Righting and Strip Extension

The following day, the pilot righted the airplane and extended the landing strip to a length of 450 feet. With the aircraft prepared and the strip lengthened, the pilot attempted a takeoff.

Takeoff Accident

During the takeoff roll, the airplane became airborne. However, shortly after becoming airborne, the right main landing gear contacted some bushes near the strip. This contact caused the airplane to subsequently strike the tundra and nose over for a second time.

Outcome

The sequence of events resulted in the airplane nosing over again after the takeoff attempt. No further details regarding the extent of damage or any injuries were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15290. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.