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Aircraft Damaged During Takeoff at Private Airstrip (N1724P)

North Pole, AK, US

On July 14, 1998, a Piper PA-22 (registration N1724P) was involved in an aviation accident near North Pole, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable runway terrain for takeoff, and his failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. Factors in the accident were uneven/rutted terrain, and high vegetation along the runway edge. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff roll, the left main tire of an airplane entered a rut, causing it to veer into tall grass and strike a tree. The aircraft pivoted, collapsing the right landing gear and sustaining damage to multiple components.

Event Overview

A pilot and a passenger were departing from a private airstrip when, during the takeoff roll, the airplane's left main tire encountered a rut. This caused the airplane to veer to the left. The left main tire subsequently entered an area of tall grass located along the left edge of the airstrip.

Sequence of Events

After entering the tall grass, the left wingtip struck a tree. The impact caused the airplane to pivot approximately 180 degrees to the left. During this pivot, the right main landing gear collapsed. The right wing and the right elevator then struck the ground.

Damage Sustained

In addition to the damage to the left wingtip and the collapsed right main landing gear, the airplane received damage to its tailwheel assembly, fuselage, and propeller.

Additional Details

The source provides no further information regarding the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, or location of the incident. No injuries or fatalities are reported in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Jul 1998 Piper PA-22 accident near North Pole, AK?

During takeoff roll, the left main tire of an airplane entered a rut, causing it to veer into tall grass and strike a tree. The aircraft pivoted, collapsing the right landing gear and sustaining damage to multiple components.

Were there any fatalities in the 14 Jul 1998 Piper PA-22 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Jul 1998 involved a Piper PA-22, registration N1724P, at North Pole, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of unsuitable runway terrain for takeoff, and his failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. Factors in the accident were uneven/rutted terrain, and high vegetation along the runway edge.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10449. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.