Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during takeoff, as the tailwheel-equipped airplane lifted off of the ground, the left wing lifted, and despite his control inputs, it drifted to the right. Subsequently, the airplane impacted trees on the right side of the runway, which resulted in structural damage to both wings and fuselage. The pilot added that at the time of takeoff, a 10 to 15 knot left crosswind was present. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC13CA083 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 24, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Talkeetna, Alaska
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-18A
- N-number
- N3599A
- 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.