Casualties unknown

Pilot Reaches for Flap Handle, Aircraft Strikes Trees During Takeoff (N7099Y)

Wasilla, AK, US

On September 27, 2000, a Piper PA-18 (registration N7099Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Wasilla, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll. A factor associated with the accident was the presence of tall brush alongside the runway. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from a narrow airstrip, a pilot removed his hand from the throttle to deploy flaps, causing the right wing to contact brush and the airplane to swerve into trees, resulting in substantial damage.

Accident Sequence

The pilot reported that his normal procedure before takeoff includes setting 10 degrees of flaps. On the day of the accident, after applying full power, he realized that he had not deployed the flaps. He removed his left hand from the throttle and reached down with his left hand for the flap handle. As he did so, the right wing of the airplane contacted brush along the narrow airstrip. The airplane then swerved to the right and struck trees.

Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.

Pilot Information

The pilot stated that he lives nearby and normally operates from this airstrip.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21896. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.