Casualties unknown

1995-04-23: Piper J-3 (N26991) — Elk Creek, WI

Elk Creek, WI, US

On April 23, 1995, a Piper J-3 (registration N26991) was involved in an aviation accident near Elk Creek, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain clearance with the trees. Factors in the accident include the trees, the tailwind condition, and the pilot's lack of proper certification. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempting to land north on a private field with a tailwind found airspeed excessive. During the subsequent go-around, the right wing struck trees along the field edge, leading to a near-vertical ground impact.

Incident Overview

A pilot who was not in possession of a valid certificate attempted to land on a private field, aiming to the north. According to reports, the wind was from 160 degrees, resulting in a tailwind condition for the intended landing direction.

Sequence of Events

The pilot realized that the airplane's airspeed was too high for a safe landing on the field. The pilot attributed the excessive speed to attempting to land with a tailwind. Deciding to abort the landing, the pilot initiated a go-around.

During the climb phase of the go-around, the airplane's right wing made contact with trees situated along the edge of the field. Following the wing strike, the airplane descended and impacted the ground in a near-vertical attitude.

Contributing Factors

No analysis or causal factors were provided in the initial report. The only stated details are the actions of the non-certificated pilot and the environmental conditions at the time.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03266. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.