2000-10-02: Piper PA-18-160 — Naknek, AK

Casualties unknown • Naknek, AK, US

Probable cause

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area. Factors associated with the accident were wet and soft terrain.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The certificated commercial pilot started a southeasterly takeoff run on a 700 feet long airstrip. He added that the airplane's acceleration was slow due to wet, tundra-covered terrain. As the airplane neared the end of the airstrip, just before it became airborne, he turned the airplane to the left to avoid striking a truck parked at the end of the airstrip, and the left wing struck a cabin at the end of the airstrip. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and fuselage. The pilot said that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-10-02 Piper PA-18-160 accident near Naknek, AK?

The certificated commercial pilot started a southeasterly takeoff run on a 700 feet long airstrip. He added that the airplane's acceleration was slow due to wet, tundra-covered terrain. As the airplane neared the end of the airstrip, just before it became airborne, he turned the airplane to the left to avoid striking…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-10-02 involved a Piper PA-18-160, registration N59645, at Naknek, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area. Factors associated with the accident were wet and soft terrain.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22092. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…