No fatalities

Pilot Injured After Loss of Control and Crash Near Healy Airport (N5075E)

Healy, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On August 12, 1981, a Rockwell Shrike Commander 500 (registration N5075E) operated by Wilbur's Flight Operations was involved in an aviation accident near Healy, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with trees during initial climb due to inadequate preflight preparation on part of the pilot. Contributing factors: unfavorable wind conditions, wind gusting 20 knots at airport, wind variable and gusting 50 knots approximately 1.5 mile either side… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot was injured when the aircraft lost control during climb after takeoff from Healy, struck trees, and crashed near the airport. The aircraft was destroyed. Investigation cited inadequate preflight preparation and gusty winds.

Accident Overview

During initial climb after takeoff from Healy, the pilot lost control of the airplane. The aircraft subsequently struck trees and crashed in a location near the airport. The pilot sustained injuries, and the airplane was destroyed.

Circumstances

The accident occurred shortly after departure. While climbing, the pilot was unable to maintain control, leading to the collision with trees and the crash. No other details about the flight or aircraft were specified in the official report.

Probable Cause and Contributing Factors

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a collision with trees during initial climb due to inadequate preflight preparation on the part of the pilot. Contributing factors reported include unfavorable wind conditions, with wind gusting to 20 knots at the airport, and wind variable and gusting to 50 knots approximately 1.5 miles on either side of the airport.