Casualties unknown

Low Pass Over Sand Bar Ends with Tree Collision (N4122E)

Tok, AK, US

On August 6, 2002, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N4122E) operated by Charles R. Rhodes was involved in an aviation accident near Tok, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from terrain and trees during a low pass to examine a potential landing site. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a low pass to assess a sand bar for landing, a pilot touched down, struck willows with the left wing, then climbed into trees and crashed.

Accident Summary

A pilot conducting a low-altitude pass over a sand bar to evaluate its potential as a landing site experienced a sequence of collisions that ended with the airplane falling to the ground.

Sequence of Events

The pilot reported that he intended to examine the sand bar as a possible landing area. During the pass, he deliberately rolled the main wheels along the surface of the sand bar to test its suitability. As the wheels made contact, the airplane's left wing struck willows growing alongside the sand bar. The pilot then initiated a climb, but at a slow airspeed and approximately 35 feet above the ground, the airplane collided with trees. Following the tree strike, the airplane fell to the ground.

Aircraft and Pilot Information

No additional details about the aircraft type, registration, pilot experience, or operational context were provided in the source. The report contains no mention of injuries, fatalities, or damage extent.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020814X01381. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.