Probable cause
The pilot’s loss of directional control during takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the takeoff downhill, from an unimproved airstrip, the airplane “rolled over a bump”, became airborne, and yawed slightly right. The pilot attempted to correct for the loss of directional control to no avail. Subsequently, the airplane drifted, exited the airstrip, and came to rest in the trees.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC20CA096 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 12, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Chitina, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Nizina Strip (N/A)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA18
- N-number
- N416RK
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1966
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.