Piper PA-18-150 N4242Z accident near Fairbanks, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain a rate of climb sufficient to clear obstacles during takeoff, resulting in a collision with obstacles and a subsequent aerodynamic stall.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff, his tailwheel-equipped airplane was not producing adequate lift to maintain a rate of climb needed to clear obstacles at the end of the airstrip. The landing gear contacted the tops of some small trees, the left wing stalled, and the airplane came to rest in a grove of small trees and brush, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC24LA098 for the full record.