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Downhill Runway Departure with Tailwind Results in Brush Strike and Elevator Damage

Fairbanks, AK, United States

On June 4, 2014, a CESSNA 170B UNDESIGNAT was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The airplane's encounter with a tailwind during takeoff from a short, narrow airstrip, which resulted in a loss of lift and collision with brush and small trees. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot departing a downhill-sloping runway at 9AK with a tailwind reported that the airplane failed to climb, struck brush at the runway end, and veered into trees. The right outboard elevator separated. No mechanical failures were noted.

Accident Summary

A pilot was departing from runway at airstrip 9AK. The runway sloped downhill to the east and a slight tailwind was present. During the takeoff roll, as the airplane attempted to become airborne, the tailwind increased considerably, preventing the airplane from climbing.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that the airplane subsequently struck brush that had encroached the east end of the runway area. After striking the brush, the airplane veered left into additional brush and small trees. The pilot further reported that no mechanical failures or malfunctions of the airplane precluded normal operation.

Runway Conditions

Photographs of the airstrip provided by the pilot indicated that 9AK was a short, narrow, and rough-surfaced airstrip with brush growth encroachment at the runway ends.

Damage

The accident resulted in the separation of the right outboard elevator. Other damage was not specified.

Contributing factors

Causes

Climb rate — Not attained/maintainedEffect on operation

Other contributing factors

Contributed to outcome

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Jun 2014 CESSNA 170B UNDESIGNAT accident near Fairbanks, AK?

A pilot departing a downhill-sloping runway at 9AK with a tailwind reported that the airplane failed to climb, struck brush at the runway end, and veered into trees. The right outboard elevator separated. No mechanical failures were noted.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Jun 2014 CESSNA 170B UNDESIGNAT accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Jun 2014 involved a CESSNA 170B UNDESIGNAT, at Fairbanks, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The airplane's encounter with a tailwind during takeoff from a short, narrow airstrip, which resulted in a loss of lift and collision with brush and small trees.

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