Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Propeller Strike and Forced Landing in River (N83616)

Kivalina, AK, US

On May 24, 1996, a Piper PA-18 (registration N83616) was involved in an aviation accident near Kivalina, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area. 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

During takeoff, the right wheel hit a hole, causing the propeller to strike a rock. After liftoff, vibration prompted an engine idle reduction and landing in a river, where the airplane nosed over.

Incident Summary

A pilot reported a sequence of events during a takeoff that culminated in a forced landing in a river. The airplane subsequently nosed over and became submerged.

Pilot Account

According to the pilot, during the takeoff roll, the airplane's right wheel encountered a hole. This was followed by the sound of the propeller striking a rock. Despite the event, the pilot continued the takeoff. After becoming airborne, the airplane began to vibrate. In response, the pilot reduced the engine power to idle. The pilot was forced to land in the river, after which the airplane became submerged and nosed over.

Damage

Upon exiting the airplane, the pilot examined the propeller and observed that approximately 3 inches were missing from one blade.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05692. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.