Aircraft nosed over during takeoff from gravel area

Casualties unknown • Healy, AK, US

A pilot experienced a loss of directional control during takeoff from a narrow, downhill gravel strip, resulting in an aircraft nose-over.

What happened

A pilot was performing a departure from a tundra and gravel-covered area located along a creek. The takeoff area was described as being 20 feet wide by 300 feet long, featuring a dogleg turn to the left, with an additional takeoff section of 600 feet. The entire area utilized for the takeoff was sloped downhill.

The pilot departed toward the north into a tailwind ranging from 6 to 10 knots. Approximately 100 feet past the dogleg turn to the left, the tailwind caused the tail of the aircraft to push to the right. This resulted in the nose of the aircraft veering to the left, where it collided with willow bushes and subsequently nosed over.

The aircraft sustained damage to the right wing lift struts, the rudder, and the right elevator. There were no injuries reported.

Probable cause

The tailwind caused the aircraft to veer left into vegetation during takeoff from a narrow, downhill slope.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-09-06 Piper PA-18 accident near Healy, AK?

A pilot experienced a loss of directional control during takeoff from a narrow, downhill gravel strip, resulting in an aircraft nose-over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-09-06 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N7472D, at Healy, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The tailwind caused the aircraft to veer left into vegetation during takeoff from a narrow, downhill slope.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20041006X01583. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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