Probable cause
The pilot’s encounter with windshear during the initial climb, which resulted in a loss of control.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during climb-out from a remote airstrip, he encountered an abrupt wind shift and windshear. According to the pilot, the airplane was unable to gain altitude and was eventually “forced” into the ground, causing substantial damage to the left wing, left horizontal stabilizer, and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC23LA066 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 15, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Tyonek, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-18-150
- N-number
- N3995Z
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1963
- 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.