Casualties unknown

Downdraft Leads to Crash Near Powerline Pass (N2399S)

Anchorage, AK, US

On October 25, 1995, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N2399S) operated by Geoff Stearn was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions, and failure to maintain sufficient altitude/clearance from mountainous/hilly terrain. 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 pilot on a local flight to Lake Hood Seaplane Base encountered a downdraft while approaching Powerline Pass, leading to a crash on the east side of the pass. The pilot reported being unable to stop the descent.

Accident Overview

A pilot flying a local flight returning to Lake Hood Seaplane Base crashed into terrain on the east side of Powerline Pass. According to the pilot, the airplane encountered a downdraft while approaching the pass, and he was unable to stop the descent. The accident site is on the east side of the pass.

Flight Details

The flight was a local flight, with the intended destination being Lake Hood Seaplane Base. The pilot reported that as he neared Powerline Pass, the airplane was affected by a downdraft. Despite his efforts, the descent could not be arrested, resulting in the collision with terrain.

Weather Conditions

Local area winds measured in the valley, approximately 12 miles west of the accident site, were from the north at 5 knots. The pilot could not estimate the wind conditions within the pass itself.

Accident Outcome

The airplane crashed into the terrain on the east side of Powerline Pass. No further details about the aircraft or occupants were provided in the investigation source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04625. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.