No fatalities

3 Sep 2009: PIPER PA-22-160 — KEVIN E. VANDEGRIFF — Talkeetna, AK

Talkeetna, AK, United States

On 3 Sep 2009, a PIPER PA-22-160 operated by KEVIN E. VANDEGRIFF was involved in an aviation accident near Talkeetna, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing/takeoff area, resulting in a nose over during takeoff. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

During a takeoff from a sand and gravel off-airport site, a private pilot experienced a nose over after the main wheels struck water at the departure end, resulting in substantial damage.

Incident Details

A private pilot was conducting a personal flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91. The takeoff was initiated from a sand and gravel-covered off-airport site. During the takeoff roll, the airplane failed to become airborne before reaching the end of the site. The main wheels subsequently struck a pool of water located at the departure end of the site.

Sequence of Events

After the main wheels impacted the water, the airplane nosed over. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.

Pilot Account

In the pilot's report to the NTSB, he stated that it was a poor decision to land at the off-airport site. No further details regarding the reason for landing or the specific location were provided.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotCapability exceeded

Other contributing factors

Contributed to outcome