On July 3, 1993, a Champion 7ECA (registration N9597S) operated by Warner, Carl E. was involved in an aviation accident near Dillingham, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S ATTEMPT TO TAKEOFF WITH INSUFFICIENT AIRSPEED. A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S SELECTION OF UNSUITABLE TERRAIN ON WHICH TO LAND AND TAKEOFF. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a weather-related stop on a gravel bar, a pilot attempted takeoff with insufficient airspeed; the aircraft rose briefly then settled into a river and flipped over.
Background
A pilot landed on a gravel bar to await improved weather conditions. The gravel bar measured 375 feet in length. The aircraft required a standard takeoff distance of 400 feet under normal conditions.
Accident Sequence
The pilot assessed that a takeoff could be performed considering a 5 to 10 mile per hour headwind, the absence of passengers, and fuel at three-quarters capacity. During the takeoff roll, the indicated airspeed at the end of the gravel bar was approximately 40 miles per hour, while the normal liftoff airspeed was about 50 miles per hour. The aircraft rose several feet into the air but then descended and settled into the river, flipping over.
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