On 1 Sep 2018, a Piper PA18 150 was involved in an aviation accident near Palmer, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff from an unimproved gravel airstrip, a tailwheel-equipped airplane veered to the right and collided with a parked airplane, resulting in substantial damage.
Accident Overview
A pilot reported that while performing a takeoff from an unimproved gravel airstrip, the tailwheel-equipped airplane unexpectedly veered to the right. The aircraft subsequently struck another airplane that was parked on the right side of the airstrip.
Aircraft Damage
The collision caused substantial damage to both wings, the fuselage, and the elevator of the accident aircraft. The extent of damage to the parked airplane was not specified.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. No other contributing factors were mentioned in the report.
Contributing factors
Causes
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilotEffect on operation