2007-09-11: Piper PA-18 — Tok, AK

Casualties unknown • Tok, AK, US

Probable cause

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area and failure to maintain clearance from trees during takeoff. Contributing to the accident were soft, muddy terrain conditions.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The airline transport pilot, with a hunting client aboard, was departing from a soft, 900-foot long, mud and gravel-covered off-airport site that had an area of standing water near the departure end. During the takeoff run, the pilot said he was able to get the airplane airborne before reaching the area of standing water, but as the airplane began to climb, it struck a stand of trees at the departure end of the site. The airplane sustained structural damage to the wings, fuselage, and horizontal stabilizer. The pilot said that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2007-09-11 Piper PA-18 accident near Tok, AK?

The airline transport pilot, with a hunting client aboard, was departing from a soft, 900-foot long, mud and gravel-covered off-airport site that had an area of standing water near the departure end. During the takeoff run, the pilot said he was able to get the airplane airborne before reaching the area of standing…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2007-09-11 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N82022, at Tok, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area and failure to maintain clearance from trees during takeoff. Contributing to the accident were soft, muddy terrain conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20071107X01745. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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