Aircraft Nosed Over During Takeoff from Remote Airstrip

Casualties unknown • Fairbanks, AK, US

A commercial pilot experienced a nose-over accident while attempting to depart a short, remote airstrip following an inspection of the field.

What happened

A certificated commercial pilot was conducting a public use flight in a remote area to inspect a small airstrip used by hunters. The airstrip was approximately 650 feet long and oriented north/south. During the initial landing at the strip, the pilot noted a wind from the south at approximately 18 knots.

Following the inspection of the field, the pilot prepared for a southbound departure. The pilot had previously noted that several trees, measuring roughly 20 feet in height, were situated at the southern end of the airstrip. As the takeoff progressed, the pilot lowered the flaps about halfway down the runway. While the airplane became momentarily airborne, the pilot realized the aircraft would not clear the trees at the end of the strip.

In response, the pilot raised the flaps and applied heavy braking as the airplane touched down again. The aircraft subsequently nosed over at the end of the airstrip. The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, tail assembly, and the fuselage. The pilot was not injured.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-08-21 Piper PA-18 accident near Fairbanks, AK?

A commercial pilot experienced a nose-over accident while attempting to depart a short, remote airstrip following an inspection of the field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-08-21 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N74996, at Fairbanks, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate preflight planning/preparation, and his delay in aborting the takeoff. Factors in the accident were a short runway area for takeoff, trees located at the end of the runway, and the pilot's excessive application of brakes.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10757. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…