Accident Summary
A single-engine airplane crashed shortly after takeoff from the gravel airstrip at Anchorage-Lake Hood, Alaska. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was killed in the accident. The aircraft encountered difficulties gaining altitude after departure, striking a lumber stack and a fence before crashing in flames onto a parking lot. Five cars were damaged in the crash. The flight was en route to Aniak on a cargo mission.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
According to official findings, the probable cause of the accident was the pilot's inadequate preflight preparation. The investigation reported several contributing factors: failure to maintain flying speed, lack of familiarity with the aircraft, improperly loaded aircraft, incorrect trim setting, and the aircraft being at least 484 pounds over its maximum gross weight.