Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to recognize and avoid an obstacle on the runway environment during takeoff roll. Contributing was flat light conditions.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, while on takeoff roll from a gravel airstrip, the airplane’s left main wheel struck a pile of gravel, resulting in a nose over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings, horizontal stabilizer, and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations. The pilot added that flat light conditions, coupled with the gray silt ladened gravel, contributed to him not seeing the obstacle on the airstrip.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC24LA040 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 1, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Soldotna, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Holiday Park Residential (N/A)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 180H
- N-number
- N91224
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1969
- 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.