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.
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.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 26 Aug 1996 Piper PA-18-160 accident near Northway, AK?
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.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Aug 1996 involved a Piper PA-18-160, registration N2683A, at Northway, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's premature lift-off. A factor associated with the accident was the rough and uneven airstrip.
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