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Casualties unknown

Takeoff Failure on Remote Beach During Bear Hunting Trip (N5285J)

Juneau, AK, US

On December 17, 1994, a Piper PA-18 (registration N5285J) was involved in an aviation accident near Juneau, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF UNSUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE ATTEMPTED TAKEOFF. 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

A pilot and one passenger landed on a remote beach for bear hunting. During takeoff, the airplane failed to become airborne and collided with brush. No mechanical anomalies were reported.

Accident Overview

A pilot reported that he and one passenger had landed on a remote beach site while bear hunting. After scouting the area, the pilot attempted to take off from the same beach where he had landed. The pilot estimated that the total area available for takeoff was between 400 and 600 feet.

Takeoff and Collision

The airplane failed to become airborne before reaching the end of the takeoff area and subsequently collided with brush. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

Investigation

The investigation into the accident is based solely on the pilot's account. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or injuries have been provided. The circumstances surrounding the attempted takeoff from the constrained beach area are documented as reported.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Dec 1994 Piper PA-18 accident near Juneau, AK?

A pilot and one passenger landed on a remote beach for bear hunting. During takeoff, the airplane failed to become airborne and collided with brush. No mechanical anomalies were reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Dec 1994 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N5285J, at Juneau, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF UNSUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE ATTEMPTED TAKEOFF.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02674. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.