On August 20, 1999, a Piper PA-18 (registration N82905) was involved in an aviation accident near Sleetmute, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area, which resulted in the airplane colliding with vegetation, knocking the gascolator off the airplane, and fuel starvation of the engine. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff from a ridgetop location, striking vegetation before the pilot executed a forced landing into trees below the ridge.
What happened
The incident occurred during the initial climb phase following takeoff from an unprepared off-airport ridgetop landing area. Shortly after becoming airborne, the airplane impacted a bush with a two-inch diameter and four-foot height. The pilot reported smelling fuel prior to the engine stopping completely.
Following the loss of power, the pilot initiated a forced landing maneuver into the wooded terrain situated below the ridge. During this emergency descent and impact, the right landing gear mount sustained damage. Post-accident examination revealed that the engine gascolator had separated from the airframe and was located adjacent to the first bush struck during the initial climb.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage indicated that the engine gascolator was detached from the airplane. It was recovered next to the first vegetation obstacle encountered after takeoff. The right landing gear mount showed damage consistent with the forced landing into trees below the ridge.
What happened in the 20 Aug 1999 Piper PA-18 accident near Sleetmute, AK?
An aircraft experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff from a ridgetop location, striking vegetation before the pilot executed a forced landing into trees below the ridge.
Were there any fatalities in the 20 Aug 1999 Piper PA-18 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Aug 1999 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N82905, at Sleetmute, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area, which resulted in the airplane colliding with vegetation, knocking the gascolator off the airplane, and fuel starvation of the engine.
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