Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Right Wing Strike and Landing Gear Collapse During Ridgeline Takeoff (N1879A)

Mccarthy, AK, US

On September 1, 1996, a Piper PA-18 (registration N1879A) was involved in an aviation accident near Mccarthy, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for gusty wind conditions, and his selection of an unsuitable landing/takeoff site. A factor associated with the accident was the gusty wind. 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 a takeoff attempt from a remote ridgeline, the right wing struck alder bushes, causing the airplane to veer right, collapse the left main landing gear, and damage the left wing.

Incident Details

A pilot reported an accident during a takeoff attempt from a remote ridgeline. The flight was intended to carry one hunting client. According to the pilot, the wind was gusting from the southeast at 5 to 20 knots at the time of the attempted takeoff.

Sequence of Events

During the takeoff roll, the right wing of the airplane struck alder bushes. The impact pulled the aircraft to the right. Subsequently, the left main landing gear collapsed, and the left wing sustained damage.

Pilot's Report

In the pilot's written report, he stated that the accident could have been avoided by not attempting to take off from the ridge in gusty wind conditions.

Outcome

The airplane incurred damage to the left wing and the left main landing gear. No further details regarding the condition of the aircraft or any occupants 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/20001208X06410. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.