Right wing stall causes aircraft cartwheel on gravel bar

Casualties unknown • Mcgrath, AK, US

An aircraft experienced a right wing stall and subsequent cartwheel after takeoff from an off-airport gravel bar, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.

What happened

During a preflight inspection, the pilot observed frost covering the wings and the tail section of the aircraft. The pilot attempted to clear this frost using a rope and believed the lifting surfaces had been sufficiently cleaned prior to departure.

Immediately following takeoff from an off-airport gravel bar, the aircraft climbed to an altitude of approximately five to ten feet. At this height, the right wing stalled. The pilot reported that gusty winds were present during the accident, noting that a wind gust caught the aircraft and forced the right wing downward. As a result of the stall, the right wing struck the ground, causing the airplane to cartwheel.

The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the right wing, tail assembly, and empennage. The pilot was not injured.

Probable cause

The pilot's belief that frost had been adequately removed from the wings, combined with gusty wind conditions, led to a wing stall and subsequent impact with the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-09-02 Piper PA-18 accident near Mcgrath, AK?

An aircraft experienced a right wing stall and subsequent cartwheel after takeoff from an off-airport gravel bar, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-09-02 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N10572, at Mcgrath, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's belief that frost had been adequately removed from the wings, combined with gusty wind conditions, led to a wing stall and subsequent impact with the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21883. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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