On 21 Sep 2009, a PIPER PA-22 operated by Dylan Honebrink was involved in an aviation accident near Seward, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff, resulting in a loss of control and a nose over during the takeoff roll. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a takeoff from a remote island beach, a tailwheel-equipped airplane encountered soft sand, causing the main landing gear to slow and the airplane to nose over. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical problems.
Accident Summary
An airline transport pilot and one passenger were conducting a personal flight under Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The accident occurred during takeoff from a remote island beach in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. According to the pilot, as the airplane accelerated on the beach, the main landing gear wheels encountered soft sand. The airplane quickly slowed and then nosed over. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that the accident could have been prevented if the airplane had larger tires, or if he had selected a firmer takeoff area. No other details were provided regarding the aircraft or the environment.
Contributing factors
Causes
Decision related to conditionPilot
Other contributing factors
Performance/control parameters — Not attained/maintained