Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Nose-Over After Off-Airport Takeoff Attempt (N7279K)

Anchorage, AK, US

On September 1, 1998, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N7279K) was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable area for takeoff. A factor associated with the accident is the pilot's premature liftoff. 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

A pilot reported that his airplane nosed over after encountering rough terrain following an off-airport takeoff. The aircraft became airborne but settled and drifted into undergrowth.

Accident Details

A pilot reported that he was attempting a takeoff from a remote, off-airport site. He estimated the takeoff site to be 500 feet long. During the takeoff roll, the airplane became airborne after approximately 300 feet of ground roll.

Events During Flight

Shortly after becoming airborne, the airplane settled back to the ground and drifted to the left into undergrowth. The aircraft then encountered rough terrain, which caused it to nose over.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical problems with the airplane. No other details about the aircraft or pilot were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Sept 1998 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Anchorage, AK?

A pilot reported that his airplane nosed over after encountering rough terrain following an off-airport takeoff. The aircraft became airborne but settled and drifted into undergrowth.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Sept 1998 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N7279K, at Anchorage, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable area for takeoff. A factor associated with the accident is the pilot's premature liftoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10970. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.