Casualties unknown

Off-Airport Takeoff Attempt Ends in Brush After Wing Strikes Muskeg (N4393Z)

Tyonek, AK, US

On September 1, 1996, a Piper PA-18 (registration N4393Z) operated by Allen Darrell Hulen was involved in an aviation accident near Tyonek, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's premature liftoff and subsequent inadvertent stall. 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 attempted a dusk takeoff from an off-airport landing site. The airplane lifted off prematurely, drifted right, and the left wing struck muskeg before settling into brush.

Factual Summary

A pilot attempted to take off from an off-airport landing site during the hours of dusk. The airplane had previously landed at that location. During the takeoff roll, the tail lifted off the ground, and then the airplane lifted off prematurely.

Sequence of Events

After becoming airborne, the airplane drifted to the right. Subsequently, the left wing struck muskeg, and the airplane settled into brush.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that he tried to stop the drift by applying full left rudder and full left aileron. He also stated that he felt the airplane's right wing had stalled.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06650. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.