Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, in gusty wind conditions, resulting in a loss of control and a collision with trees.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that during takeoff from an unimproved airstrip, in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, she encountered a gust of wind just as the tail lifted off the ground. The airplane veered left and impacted trees and came to rest amongst the vegetation. Both wings, horizontal stabilizer, and elevator sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions of failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC24LA078 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 15, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Healy, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 170B
- N-number
- N2524D
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1952
- 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.