Aircraft strikes trees during takeoff from off-airport site

Casualties unknown • Tok, AK, US

A private pilot was unable to clear a stand of willow trees during a southwesterly departure from an off-airport landing strip due to wind conditions.

What happened

A private pilot was attempting a southwesterly departure from an off-airport landing site measuring 650 feet in length. Approximately halfway through the takeoff roll, the aircraft became airborne. However, the aircraft failed to reach an altitude sufficient to clear a stand of willow trees located at the end of the takeoff area.

The pilot reported that the aircraft was flying at an altitude of approximately 5 to 6 feet when strong winds pushed the plane into the trees. At the time of the accident, the pilot noted wind conditions were from the southwest at 15 knots, with peak gusts reaching 20 knots.

Probable cause

Strong wind gusts pushed the aircraft into a stand of willow trees during takeoff from a short off-airport landing site.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-08-16 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Tok, AK?

A private pilot was unable to clear a stand of willow trees during a southwesterly departure from an off-airport landing strip due to wind conditions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-08-16 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N8252C, at Tok, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Strong wind gusts pushed the aircraft into a stand of willow trees during takeoff from a short off-airport landing site.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10745. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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