On September 1, 1992, a Piper PA-18 (registration N4493Z) operated by Gates, George F. was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to clear obstacles during takeoff, which resulted in damage to the landing gear and subsequent loss of control upon landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Piper PA-18 struck a stump during takeoff from a remote strip. The pilot continued to Anchorage, lost control upon touchdown, and the aircraft nosed over.
What happened
The pilot was operating a Piper PA-18 equipped with balloon tires at a remote airstrip. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft struck a stump or another unidentified object before becoming airborne. After lifting off, the pilot assessed damage to the landing gear but elected to continue the flight to Anchorage International Airport.
Upon touchdown at Anchorage, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The airplane swerved toward the side of the damaged main gear and subsequently nosed over during the landing roll.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical condition of the aircraft following the incident. Examination revealed damage to the landing gear system consistent with striking a hard object during the initial takeoff phase. No other mechanical failures or malfunctions were identified that would have precluded normal operation.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to clear obstacles during takeoff, which resulted in damage to the landing gear and subsequent loss of control upon landing.
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