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NTSB Report
September 15, 2024 · Piper PA-18-150 · N4242Z
Fairbanks, AK
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
September 15, 2024
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Fairbanks, AK
Aircraft
Piper PA-18-150 (1967)
Tail Number
N4242Z
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC24LA098
The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff, his tailwheel-equipped airplane was not producing adequate lift to maintain a rate of climb needed to clear obstacles at the end of the airstrip. The landing gear contacted the tops of some small trees, the left wing stalled, and the airplane came to rest in a grove of small trees and brush, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain a rate of climb sufficient to clear obstacles during takeoff, resulting in a collision with obstacles and a subsequent aerodynamic stall.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff, his tailwheel-equipped airplane was not producing adequate lift to maintain a rate of climb needed to clear obstacles at the end of the airstrip. The landing gear contacted the tops of some small trees, the left wing stalled, and the airplane came to rest in a grove of small trees and brush, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time12:00 AKDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledVFR
Flight Plan ActivatedYes
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftPiper PA-18-150
Tail NumberN4242Z
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 75 · Sprt · None
Crew 2None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind190° @ 5 kt
Visibility9 sm
CeilingBroken clouds 3800 ft
Temperature / Dew Point48 F / 46 F
Altimeter29.31 inHg
Observation Time11:53
Weather SourceWFAC