Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from an object during takeoff, which resulted in a collision and ground loop. Contributing was the pilot’s selection of an unsuitable takeoff area.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll while departing from a remote ridgeline in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the airplane’s left wing struck a small pine tree. The airplane subsequently ground looped to the left, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage. 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 ANC25LA108 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 17, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Delta Junction, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Ridge (NONE)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-18-150
- N-number
- N7777D
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1954
- 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.