On June 16, 1996, a Piper PA-18 (registration N8796D) was involved in an aviation accident near Nikiski, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's premature lift-off during the takeoff roll. The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff was a factor in the accident. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff from a remote area with soft terrain and high grass, a tundra tire equipped airplane momentarily became airborne before settling back, striking a stump with the right main gear and contacting the ground with the left wing, resulting in a nose-down attitude.
Incident Overview
A pilot was departing a remote landing area in an airplane equipped with tundra tires. The pilot had visited the area many times in the past.
Takeoff Area Conditions
The takeoff area was approximately 800 feet long and contained patches of grass about 3 feet high. The area also included soft terrain and standing water.
Accident Sequence
During the takeoff run, the airplane became airborne momentarily and then settled back to the surface. The right main landing gear tire struck a stump, and the left wing contacted the ground. Subsequently, the airplane nosed down in the soft terrain.
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