Casualties unknown

Takeoff from Gravel Bar Ends in Collision with Trees (N6760B)

Slana, AK, US

On August 16, 1996, a Piper PA-18 (registration N6760B) was involved in an aviation accident near Slana, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff. A factor associated with the accident was the rough and uneven terrain. 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 from a remote gravel bar, the airplane hit a hump, veered left, and after becoming airborne, the left wing struck trees. The pilot lost control and the plane came to rest in a wooded area.

Accident Sequence

The pilot reported attempting to take off from a remote gravel bar. During the takeoff roll, the airplane encountered a hump on the runway surface, which caused the airplane to veer to the left. Shortly after passing over the hump, the airplane became airborne.

As the airplane climbed, the left wing collided with trees and brush. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control following the collision. The airplane subsequently departed the left side of the gravel bar and came to rest in a stand of trees and brush.

Outcome

The airplane came to rest in a wooded area adjacent to the gravel bar. No further details about the condition of the aircraft or the pilot were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06406. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.