Casualties unknown

Private Pilot and Passenger Depart from Remote Gravel Bar; Airplane Strikes Log and River Bank (N339T)

Circle, AK, US

On August 4, 1995, a Piper PA-18 (registration N339T) operated by Ingo Brigmann was involved in an aviation accident near Circle, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S PREMATURE LIFTOFF DURING 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot and passenger attempted takeoff from a 650-foot gravel bar along a river. The airplane lifted off, settled back, bounced off water, struck a log with right main gear, and contacted a river bank with right wingtip, coming to rest reversed.

Accident Narrative

A certificated private pilot and a passenger were departing from a remote gravel bar situated along the banks of a river. The pilot had previously landed on the same section of the gravel bar numerous times. The takeoff area was approximately 650 feet in length, with water present at both ends of the strip.

Sequence of Events

The pilot applied full power for takeoff. After rolling about 300 feet, the airplane became light on the surface. At approximately 400 feet of departure roll, the pilot extended the flaps. The airplane then lifted off but subsequently settled back to the ground and bounced off an open section of water. During this sequence, the airplane's right main landing gear struck a log, and the right wingtip contacted a small river bank. The airplane came to rest oriented 180 degrees from its departure heading. No other details were provided in the source regarding injuries, damage, or weather conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04124. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.