Casualties unknown

2006-08-15: Piper PA-14 (N5402H) — Fairbanks, AK

Fairbanks, AK, US

On August 15, 2006, a Piper PA-14 (registration N5402H) was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable off-airport site for takeoff, which resulted in an on-ground encounter with rough-uneven terrain, a loss of control, and a collision with small trees. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot aborted a takeoff from an off-airport site after the right wing struck a tree, leading to a collision with additional trees and structural damage to the landing gear, left wing, and elevators.

Incident Overview

A private certificated pilot was attempting to depart from an off-airport location in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. During the takeoff roll, the right main landing gear wheel encountered a depression in the ground. This caused the right wing to dip and strike a small tree.

Sequence of Events

Following the wing strike, the pilot aborted the takeoff. However, the airplane was unable to stop before overrunning the designated takeoff area. It subsequently collided with additional small trees. The impact resulted in the collapse of the left main landing gear and caused the left wing to contact the ground.

Damage

The pilot reported that the airplane sustained structural damage to the landing gear, the left wing, and the elevators. No other details about the extent of damage were provided.

Pilot and Aircraft

The pilot held a private certificate. The specific aircraft type, registration, and other identifiers were not reported. The flight was conducted from an off-airport site, and no information about the weather, time of day, or air traffic control involvement was included in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060912X01332. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.