Casualties unknown

Private Pilot Lands Short on Gravel Airstrip, Strikes Brush and Trees During Go-Around (N6760B)

Talkeetna, AK, US

On June 1, 2007, a Piper PA-18 (registration N6760B) was involved in an aviation accident near Talkeetna, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's delay in aborting the landing, which resulted in an in-flight collision with 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A solo private pilot landed short on a remote gravel airstrip during a cross-country flight, then attempted a go-around but the engine did not reach full power before the airplane struck brush and trees, resulting in substantial damage.

Accident Overview

A private pilot conducting a solo cross-country personal flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91, experienced an accident while landing at a remote airstrip. The pilot reported that the airstrip was covered with gravel and measured approximately 800 feet in length and 20 feet in width.

Sequence of Events

According to the pilot, he inadvertently allowed the airplane to touch down about midway along the airstrip. Realizing the remaining distance was insufficient to stop, he attempted to abort the landing by abruptly advancing the throttle. However, the engine was unable to produce full power before the airplane reached the departure end of the site, where it contacted high brush and trees.

Aircraft Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage as a result of the impact with vegetation.

Pilot Reports

The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the aircraft. The engine's failure to reach full power was described as a result of the abrupt throttle advance not producing a response in time to execute a successful go-around.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070625X00794. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.