On May 5, 2016, a PIPER PA 18-150 operated by MCMAHAN JOHNNY W was involved in an aviation accident near McCarthy, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed while maneuvering at a low altitude, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall from which he could not recover. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
While maneuvering low-level to find a gravel bar for landing, a wind gust lifted the right wing, leading to an aerodynamic stall and impact with terrain. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Incident Narrative
According to the pilot, the accident occurred while maneuvering at low altitude. The pilot was attempting to locate a suitable gravel bar for an off-airport landing. During this maneuver, a wind gust lifted the right wing. The airplane subsequently entered an aerodynamic stall. The pilot reported that he was unable to recover from the stall before the aircraft impacted terrain.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage as a result of the impact.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot attributed the event to the wind gust and subsequent stall.
Contributing factors
PilotAirspeed — Not attained/maintainedAngle of attack — Not attained/maintained
What happened in the 5 May 2016 PIPER PA 18-150 accident near McCarthy, AK?
While maneuvering low-level to find a gravel bar for landing, a wind gust lifted the right wing, leading to an aerodynamic stall and impact with terrain. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Were there any fatalities in the 5 May 2016 PIPER PA 18-150 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 May 2016 involved a PIPER PA 18-150, operated by MCMAHAN JOHNNY W, at McCarthy, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed while maneuvering at a low altitude, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall from which he could not recover.
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