Probable cause
The pilot's decision to takeoff with an unfavorable wind which resulted in a loss of directional control, and collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, during takeoff, a gust of wind lifted the airplane's left wing and the right wing struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and empennage. The pilot said there were no mechanical problems with the airplane, and that the accident could have been avoided had he waited for more favorable wind conditions.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC11CA086 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 25, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Beluga Lake, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-18-150
- N-number
- N8491Y
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.