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August 10, 2021 · Piper PA-18 160 · N1264A

Talkeetna, AK

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
August 10, 2021
Injury Outcomes
2 injuries (2 minor injuries)
Location
Talkeetna, AK
Aircraft
Piper PA-18 160 (1951)
Tail Number
N1264A
Operator
Pierskalla Sheila
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC21LA075

The pilot reported that, during takeoff from a private gravel-covered airstrip, the control stick “jammed” as the airplane climbed between 10 and 15 ft above ground level. Because the pilot and the passenger were both unable to move the control stick at their positions, the pilot closed the engine throttle to attempt an emergency landing. The airplane landed in an area of tree-covered terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical problems that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane. The cause of this accident could not be determined from the available evidence.

NTSB Probable Cause

The malfunction of the control stick during initial climb for reasons that could not be determined based on available evidence.

Full Narrative

On August 9, 2021, about 2030 Alaska daylight time, a Piper PA-18 airplane, N1264A, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Talkeetna, Alaska. The pilot and the passenger sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The pilot reported that, during takeoff from a private gravel-covered airstrip, the control stick “jammed” as the airplane climbed between 10 and 15 ft above ground level. The pilot noted that she was unable to move the control stick forward and aft or left to right. To regain elevator and aileron control, the pilot asked the passenger, who was in the aft seat, to assist using the control stick installed in that position, but he was unable to move the control stick. The pilot then decided to close the engine throttle and attempt an emergency landing. Subsequently, the airplane landed in an area of tree-covered terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. Postaccident examination of the airplane found no preaccident mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Specifically, examination of the forward and aft control stick mechanisms found no obstructions, and the mechanisms operated with a full range of motion. Also, control cable continuity was established.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time20:30 AKDT
Nearest AirportStephan Lake Lodge (0nm SW)
Runway18/3
Runway Length3000 ft
Runway Width50 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftPiper PA-18 160
Tail NumberN1264A
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorPierskalla Sheila
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-320 SERIES · Reciprocating · 180
Seats2

People & Injuries

Injury Summary2 injuries (2 minor injuries)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor2
Uninjured0
Total2
Crew 1Age 62 · Third Class · None

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility20 sm
CeilingBroken clouds 5000 ft
Temperature / Dew Point0 C / 0 C
Altimeter0
Weather SourcePILO

Appendix: Source Data