2007-09-03: Piper PA-18-150 — State OF Alaska — Valdez, AK

Casualties unknown • Valdez, AK, US

Probable cause

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff. A factor contributing to the accident was an inadvertent stall/mush.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The commercial certificated State Trooper pilot reported he was on an aerial patrol when he landed to survey an off airport landing site. Upon completion of the survey, he said he attempted a short field takeoff, and as he approached rising terrain after becoming airborne, he applied a second notch of flaps. He said he applied forward pressure to maintain level flight, but the airplane descended, and the left wing struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2007-09-03 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Valdez, AK?

The commercial certificated State Trooper pilot reported he was on an aerial patrol when he landed to survey an off airport landing site. Upon completion of the survey, he said he attempted a short field takeoff, and as he approached rising terrain after becoming airborne, he applied a second notch of flaps. He said…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2007-09-03 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N2355H, operated by State OF Alaska, at Valdez, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff. A factor contributing to the accident was an inadvertent stall/mush.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070906X01319. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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