1995-12-12: Piper PA-11 — Delta Junction, AK

Casualties unknown • Delta Junction, AK, US

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate preflight preparation/planning, and his improper in flight decision making. Factors associated with the accident are the gusty crosswinds and associated turbulence.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported he was attempting to takeoff in his ski equipped airplane in a gusting crosswind estimated at 25 knots. He said he elected to use the runway subjected to the greatest crosswind because it also had the most amount of snow on it. Soon after becoming airborne, the airplane encountered severe turbulence, and the pilot elected to abort the takeoff. The airplane was not in a position to land on the runway or clear nearby obstructions when the pilot aborted the takeoff. The airplane subsequently collided with trees adjacent to the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-12-12 Piper PA-11 accident near Delta Junction, AK?

The pilot reported he was attempting to takeoff in his ski equipped airplane in a gusting crosswind estimated at 25 knots. He said he elected to use the runway subjected to the greatest crosswind because it also had the most amount of snow on it. Soon after becoming airborne, the airplane encountered severe…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-12-12 involved a Piper PA-11, registration N4589M, at Delta Junction, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate preflight preparation/planning, and his improper in flight decision making. Factors associated with the accident are the gusty crosswinds and associated turbulence.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04939. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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