Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from trees.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while on final approach to the runway, he turned slightly to the right to better align the airplane with the runway. As the airplane crossed the approach end of the runway, the right wing struck a small tree. Subsequently the airplane yawed to the right and impacted the ground resulting in structural damage to the left wing and fuselage. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the engine or airplane flight control system prior to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09CA288 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 14, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Hell'S Canyon, Oregon
- Nearest airport
- Salmon Bar (N/A)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-18-150
- N-number
- N3761Z
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.