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NTSB Report
July 27, 2020 · Piper PA 18 125 · N1277A
Fairbanks, AK
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
July 27, 2020
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Fairbanks, AK
Aircraft
Piper PA 18 125 (1951)
Tail Number
N1277A
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC20CA080
The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll on an off-airport grass strip, as the airplane reached flying speed, it encountered a puddle of water which was hidden in grass and the pilot lost control of the airplane, which resulted in an impact with tundra tussocks and a main landing gear collapse. The fuselage and left lift strut sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He also reported that the accident could have been prevented had he performed a better walk down of the grass strip.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's improper decision to depart from an off-airport surface that had standing water, which resulted in a loss of control and impact with terrain.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll on an off-airport grass strip, as the airplane reached flying speed, it encountered a puddle of water which was hidden in grass and the pilot lost control of the airplane, which resulted in an impact with tundra tussocks and a main landing gear collapse. The fuselage and left lift strut sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He also reported that the accident could have been prevented had he performed a better walk down of the grass strip.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time19:00 AKDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledVFR
Flight Plan ActivatedUnknown
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftPiper PA 18 125
Tail NumberN1277A
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-320 · Reciprocating · 150
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 32 · Third Class · None
Crew 2None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind270° @ 9 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingBroken clouds 8500 ft
Temperature / Dew Point67 F / 48
Altimeter29.65 inHg
Observation Time18:53
Weather SourceWFAC