Aircraft nosed over during takeoff from mining airstrip

Casualties unknown • Delta Junction, AK, US

A commercial pilot experienced a nose-over accident while departing an unpaved mining airstrip after encountering decreasing wind speeds.

What happened

A commercial certificated pilot was attempting to depart from a small, east/west oriented airstrip located at a mining claim. The airstrip measured approximately 600 feet in length and 20 feet in width, featuring a slope ranging from 6 to 10 degrees.

To account for wind blowing downhill, the pilot elected to take off toward the west, which resulted in an uphill takeoff roll. At the time of the departure, winds were reported from the west at speeds between 10 and 15 knots. While the aircraft successfully lifted off, the tires remained only about 2 to 3 feet above the ground as the plane reached the end of the airstrip. During this phase, the tires began skimming the tops of low bushes surrounding the runway.

The pilot reported that the wind speed decreased during the maneuver, causing the airplane to contact the ground and nose over. The accident resulted in damage to the engine propeller, wings, and empennage. There were no injuries reported.

Probable cause

A decrease in wind speed during takeoff caused the aircraft to lose sufficient lift, leading to ground contact and a nose-over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-08-09 Piper PA-18 accident near Delta Junction, AK?

A commercial pilot experienced a nose-over accident while departing an unpaved mining airstrip after encountering decreasing wind speeds.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-08-09 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N7777D, at Delta Junction, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A decrease in wind speed during takeoff caused the aircraft to lose sufficient lift, leading to ground contact and a nose-over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21629. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…