Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while conducting a touch and go landing on a gravel bar in a tailwheel equipped airplane, a strong gust of wind lifted the left wing. The airplane subsequently rolled to the left and came to rest inverted.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing, rudder and wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC26LA028 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 22, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Palmer, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Gravel River Bar (NONE)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-18-150
- N-number
- N4136E
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1978
- 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.