Aircraft collision with trees and boat during takeoff

Casualties unknown • Big Lake, AK, US

A pilot lost control of an aircraft during takeoff from a creek, resulting in a collision with trees and a small boat.

What happened

The pilot had recently completed a configuration change on the aircraft (type not specified), replacing the main landing gear wheels with floats. During the takeoff run, which was directed toward the west from a creek entering a large lake, the pilot estimated the wind to be from the northwest at 10 to 12 knots.

Shortly after the aircraft became airborne, a sudden wind gust estimated at 30 knots or more struck the plane. This gust caused the right wing to lift, forcing the airplane to turn toward a line of trees situated along the creek bank. Although the pilot managed to level the wings, the aircraft could not be steered away from the obstacle. The flight ended when the airplane collided with the trees and a small boat located in front of a lakeside residence. There were no injuries reported.

Probable cause

A sudden wind gust caused the aircraft to lose directional control during takeoff, leading to a collision with trees and a boat.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-05-14 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Big Lake, AK?

A pilot lost control of an aircraft during takeoff from a creek, resulting in a collision with trees and a small boat.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-05-14 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N5760D, at Big Lake, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A sudden wind gust caused the aircraft to lose directional control during takeoff, leading to a collision with trees and a boat.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05688. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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