Probable cause
The pilot’s exceedance of the airplane’s critical angle of attack while maneuvering at low altitude, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall; loss of airplane control; and impact with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that after dropping a package while on a low pass, the airplane encountered an aerodynamic stall, contacted brush and trees, and impacted the ground. The airplane came to rest inverted, causing substantial damage to the empennage, elevator, and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC24LA015 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 17, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Trapper Creek, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dusk
Cessna R172K
- N-number
- N1258V
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- UNK
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.