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NTSB Report
May 5, 2016 · Piper PA 18-150 · N5884D
Mccarthy, AK
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 5, 2016
Injury Outcomes
1 injury (1 minor injury), 1 uninjured
Location
Mccarthy, AK
Aircraft
Piper PA 18-150 (1956)
Tail Number
N5884D
Operator
Mcmahan Johnny W
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC16CA025
The pilot stated that while maneuvering low-level in an attempt to locate a suitable gravel bar for an off-airport landing, a wind gust lifted the right wing. The airplane entered an aerodynamic stall from which he was unable to recover before impacting terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to thewings and fuselage. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
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.
Full Narrative
The pilot stated that while maneuvering low-level in an attempt to locate a suitable gravel bar for an off-airport landing, a wind gust lifted the right wing. The airplane entered an aerodynamic stall from which he was unable to recover before impacting terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time11:00 AKDT
Nearest AirportMCCARTHY (11nm ENE)
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftPiper PA 18-150
Tail NumberN5884D
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorMcmahan Johnny W
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · 0-320 SERIES · Reciprocating · 150
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury Summary1 injury (1 minor injury), 1 uninjured
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor1
Uninjured1
Total2
Crew 1Age 36 · Second Class · Minor
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind140° @ 18 kt, gusting 24 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point46 / 23 C
Altimeter29.88 inHg
Observation Time18:53
Weather SourceWFAC