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Pilot Reports Failed Takeoff Attempts on Gravel Strip Ends with River Nose-Over (N45796)

Cordova, AK, US

On July 18, 2002, a Luscombe 8A (registration N45796) operated by Robert E. Sterner was involved in an aviation accident near Cordova, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable runway for takeoff, which precipitated an in-flight loss of control and subsequent collision with terrain. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported two takeoff attempts on a 1,000-foot private gravel strip perpendicular to a river. After aborting a southward takeoff, a northward attempt resulted in the airplane settling into the river and nosing over.

Incident Summary

According to the pilot's report, a takeoff was attempted on a private gravel runway measuring 1,000 feet in length. The runway was oriented perpendicular to a river. The pilot first attempted a takeoff toward the south, but the airplane failed to become airborne in time to clear obstacles at the end of the runway. The takeoff was aborted.

Pilot's Account

The pilot then attempted a takeoff toward the north. The airplane lifted off but failed to climb. The pilot noted that the runway ended at a bank 10 to 15 feet high that descended into the river. As the airplane crossed the end of the runway, it settled into the river and nosed over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Jul 2002 Luscombe 8A accident near Cordova, AK?

A pilot reported two takeoff attempts on a 1,000-foot private gravel strip perpendicular to a river. After aborting a southward takeoff, a northward attempt resulted in the airplane settling into the river and nosing over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Jul 2002 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N45796, operated by Robert E. Sterner, at Cordova, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable runway for takeoff, which precipitated an in-flight loss of control and subsequent collision with terrain.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020808X01345. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.