Casualties unknown

Takeoff Accident Involving Rough Runway and Tree Strike (N2683A)

Northway, AK, US

On August 26, 1996, a Piper PA-18-160 (registration N2683A) was involved in an aviation accident near Northway, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's premature lift-off. A factor associated with the accident was the rough and uneven airstrip. 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

A pilot reported that during takeoff from a rough gravel and turf runway, a grass clump and uneven terrain projected the airplane into the air, causing it to veer left and strike a tree, resulting in a loss of control and crash.

Accident Details

According to the pilot's report, the takeoff was initiated from a rough and uneven gravel and turf runway. During the takeoff roll, the airplane encountered a grass clump and an uneven portion of the runway. This uneven surface acted like a ramp, projecting the airplane into the air. Subsequently, the airplane veered to the left, and the left wing struck a tree. The pilot was unable to maintain control, and the airplane crashed off the left side of the runway.

Pilot's Report

In his report, the pilot described the runway conditions as rough and uneven. He noted that the runway surface was composed of gravel and turf. The pilot's recommendations for avoiding similar accidents included addressing the rough and uneven nature of the runway and emphasizing the need to keep the airplane in a level attitude until sufficient airspeed is attained.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06411. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.