On 22 Apr 2014, a PIPER PA 18A 150 A150 was involved in an aviation accident near Kenai, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff, resulting in a collision with terrain and ground loop. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff from a sloping beach, a tailwheel airplane's right main tire struck an object, causing a ground loop and substantial damage to the right wing and horizontal stabilizer.
Accident Overview
A pilot was conducting a takeoff from a sloping beach in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. According to the pilot, the tide had risen, reducing the width of the available takeoff path. During the takeoff roll, the airplane's right main landing gear tire contacted an object on the beach. This caused the airplane to pivot to the left, and the left wing subsequently struck a group of alder trees. The airplane then ground looped, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing and horizontal stabilizer.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. No other details regarding the specific object struck or the precise location and conditions were provided in the source.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and horizontal stabilizer. The extent of damage to other parts of the aircraft was not specified.
Contributing factors
PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained