Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain centerline in dusk light conditions which resulted in impact with trees.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during takeoff, in dusk light conditions he was not able to see the side tree line of the runway. The airplane traveled off center line of the runway, and subsequently impacted trees and nosed over, which resulted in substantial damage to both wings, wing lift struts, vertical stabilizer and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC22LA070 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 3, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Fairbanks, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Remote Airstrip (PVT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dusk
Piper PA-18-150
- N-number
- N119CC
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1974
- 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.