Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during a go-around in variable wind conditions.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, while landing on a remote ridgetop in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the wind unexpectedly shifted. The pilot initiated a go-around; however, he lost control of the airplane. The airplane impacted terrain and nosed over, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings, lift struts, 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 ANC25LA109 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 16, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kotlik, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Ridge (NONE)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-12
- N-number
- N3816M
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1947
- 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.