Casualties unknown

Alaska State Trooper Aircraft Involved in Ground Loop During Aborted Takeoff (N2400S)

Tyonek, AK, US

On June 4, 1995, a Piper PA-18-160 (registration N2400S) was involved in an aviation accident near Tyonek, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF UNSUITABLE TERRAIN FOR LANDING/TAKEOFF. FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ACCIDENT ARE THE LONG AND WET GRASS COVERING THE UNIMPROVED TAKEOFF AREA. 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

A state trooper pilot landed on a grassy off-airport site to apprehend a fish and game violator. During takeoff, the aircraft failed to gain lift, prompting an abort that ended in a ground loop and nose-down posture.

Incident Overview

An Alaska State Trooper pilot conducted a landing at an off-airport site adjacent to a river to apprehend an individual suspected of violating the state's fish and game laws. The landing area, described as a strip approximately 1,200 feet long, was covered with long grass and contained pockets of water.

Enforcement Action and Takeoff Attempt

After completing the enforcement action, the pilot attempted a takeoff from the same strip. The aircraft failed to become airborne before reaching an area characterized by taller grass and deeper water. In response, the pilot elected to abort the takeoff.

Outcome

During the abort, the aircraft ground-looped and subsequently nosed down. The pilot reported no pretakeoff mechanical anomalies, and none were discovered during post-incident examination.

Investigation

No probable cause has been stated in the available source material. The incident remains documented as part of routine aviation safety records.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03602. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.