On June 6, 1996, a Champion 7GCBC (registration N9113L) was involved in an aviation accident near Naknek, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inadequate visual lookout of the vehicle driver, and the inadequate visual lookout of the pilot. A factor was the State of Alaska's failure to provide taxiway hazard warning signs which would alert vehicles of the active aerodrome. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot landing at Naknek Airport experienced a conflict with an automobile while taxiing to the parking ramp. The vehicle, driven by an unlicensed youth, crossed in front of the aircraft. Pilot applied brakes and nosed down. The road is within the runway safety area and had no warning signs.
Incident Overview
A pilot completed a local flight and landed at the Naknek Airport. After landing, the pilot followed another airplane to the parking ramp. The pilot waited for that airplane to clear the runway before proceeding. While preparing to taxi, the pilot reported looking for vehicles before crossing a road that transects the parking ramp access taxiways. This road runs parallel to the runway, just beyond the runway lights.
The Conflict
As the pilot began to taxi, an automobile passed directly in front of the airplane. The pilot applied the brakes and the aircraft nosed down. The automobile did not stop after the incident. Authorities later located the operator, who was an unlicensed youth.
Road Location and Signage
The road is situated within the runway safety area, as defined by relevant regulations. At the time of the incident, there were no warning signs posted on the road or on the taxiway to alert of a potential hazard or obstruction.