Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Loss of Directional Control During Takeoff from Narrow Airstrip (N3684Z)

Anchorage, AK, US

On June 18, 1998, a Piper PA-18-160 (registration N3684Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Pilot error: insufficient right rudder application, resulting in torque effect causing loss of directional control. 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

During takeoff from a narrow, remote airstrip bordered by willows, the pilot lost directional control, causing the left wing to strike vegetation. The airplane sustained substantial damage.

Accident Details

The pilot reported that she was attempting to take off from a narrow, remote airstrip bordered by willows and brush. During the takeoff roll, she lost directional control of the airplane. The left wing subsequently struck willows alongside the airstrip, and the airplane went into the willows and brush.

Damage

The airplane received substantial damage as a result of the event.

Pilot Statement

In a conversation with an NTSB investigator, the pilot stated the cause of the accident was pilot error, specifically that she did not use enough right rudder and that the torque from the engine caused the loss of control.

Probable cause

Pilot error: insufficient right rudder application, resulting in torque effect causing loss of directional control.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10215. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.