On May 6, 2017, a STINSON 108 2 was involved in an aviation accident near Pedro Bay, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control 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 takeoff on a dirt airstrip, a tailwheel-equipped airplane veered right because the pilot could not see the runway edge due to the tail-low attitude and descending terrain. It left the runway, struck small shrubs, trees, and a large rock, and came to rest inverted, sustaining substantial wing and empennage damage.
Accident Narrative
According to the pilot, during the takeoff roll on a dirt airstrip, the tailwheel-equipped airplane began to veer to the right. The pilot reported that he could not see the right edge of the strip because the tail was low and the contour of the terrain descended away from the runway. As a result, corrective measures were not applied. The airplane continued to veer off the right side of the runway, where it encountered small shrubs and trees, as well as a large rock. The collision with these obstacles caused the airplane to come to rest inverted.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the empennage.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 6 May 2017 STINSON 108 2 accident near Pedro Bay, AK?
During takeoff on a dirt airstrip, a tailwheel-equipped airplane veered right because the pilot could not see the runway edge due to the tail-low attitude and descending terrain. It left the runway, struck small shrubs, trees, and a large rock, and came to rest inverted, sustaining substantial wing and empennage…
Were there any fatalities in the 6 May 2017 STINSON 108 2 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 May 2017 involved a STINSON 108 2, at Pedro Bay, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.