On July 15, 1997, a Piper PA-22 (registration N4520A) operated by Alfred B. Shipley was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's initiation of an abrupt, evasive maneuver, and his failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff from a private airstrip, a pilot and passenger attempted to avoid an object on the runway, resulting in the right wing striking the ground, a ground loop, and the aircraft nosing over.
Accident Details
The accident occurred during takeoff from a private airstrip. The pilot was departing toward the south and had just reached lift-off airspeed.
Sequence of Events
As the aircraft accelerated, both the pilot and passenger noticed an unidentified object running across the runway under the main wheels. The pilot believed the object was either a dog or a child. In an attempt to avoid hitting the object, the pilot abruptly pulled the control stick aft. At the same time, the passenger depressed the right rudder pedal. These simultaneous control inputs caused the right wing to strike the runway surface.
Outcome
Following the wing strike, the aircraft ground looped and nosed over.