Probable cause
The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff, resulting in a runway over-run and collision with trees.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the takeoff roll on an off airport airstrip the airplane hit a soft spot, and he elected to abort the takeoff. He further reported that he was unable to stop prior to impacting a group of alder trees at the end of the airstrip.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage.
According to the pilot there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA185 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 6, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Palmer, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA 22-160
- N-number
- N8842D
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1958
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.