Casualties unknown

Pilot's Go-Around Results in Tree Strike on Tundra Landing (N94FB)

Koliganek, AK, US

On August 20, 1994, a Piper PA-18 (registration N94FB) operated by Deda, Charles V. was involved in an aviation accident near Koliganek, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE IN-FLIGHT PLANNING AND FAILURE TO ATTAIN A TOUCHDOWN POINT IN THE LANDING AREA. AN OBSTACLE (TREE) IN THE LANDING AREA WAS A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT. 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 hunting-related cross-country flight, a pilot attempted a go-around after landing on a remote tundra strip, striking a 20-foot tree with the left wing and landing gear.

Incident Overview

A pilot and a passenger were completing a personal cross-country flight for the purpose of hunting. The pilot planned a landing in a remote area of tundra in an airplane equipped with large tundra tires. The pilot estimated the landing area to be about 600 feet long.

Sequence of Events

The pilot landed in about the middle of the area but then decided to perform a go-around. Upon adding full power, the left wing and left landing gear struck about a 20-foot high tree. After the impact, the pilot landed and discovered that the intended landing area was 400 feet long.

Investigation Notes

The investigation did not provide any further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or other circumstantial factors. No analysis or causal factors were offered in the source material.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01912. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.