Casualties unknown

Pilot Aborts Takeoff from Soft, Muddy Field; Nose Gear Fails, Airplane Noses Over (N7597D)

Nikiski, AK, US

On August 2, 1995, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N7597D) was involved in an aviation accident near Nikiski, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF UNSUITABLE TERRAIN, AND HIS DELAY IN ABORTING THE TAKEOFF. THE SOFT TERRAIN AND HIGH GRASS WERE RELATED FACTORS. 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 private pilot and three passengers landed at a remote fishing area with soft, muddy ground and high grass. During takeoff, the airplane accelerated but liftoff was impeded by grass, leading to an aborted takeoff, nose gear failure, and nosed over.

Accident Overview

A private pilot and three passengers flew to a remote area for fishing. The pilot had landed at this same location on earlier trips. The landing surface was described as soft and muddy, with high grass covering the area. Light rain was present at the time of the incident.

Takeoff Attempt

On the return flight, the pilot initiated the takeoff roll. The airplane accelerated to 60 miles per hour, but the high grass prevented the airplane from lifting off the ground. Recognizing that liftoff was not achievable, the pilot aborted the takeoff. The airplane continued beyond the boundaries of the takeoff area.

Outcome

After the airplane traveled past the takeoff area, the nose gear failed. The airplane then nosed over onto its nose. No further information about the aircraft or occupants was provided by the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04120. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.