NTSB Factual Report

On September 17, 2003, about 1430 Alaska daylight time, a tundra tire-equipped Piper PA-18 airplane, N18PX, sustained substantial damage when it collided with the ground during takeoff-initial climb from a remote ridgeline airstrip, about 38 miles southwest of Sparrevohn, Alaska. The airplane was being operated as a visual flight rules (VFR) local area personal flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91, when the accident occurred. The airplane was operated by the pilot. The private certificated pilot, the sole occupant, received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. No flight plan was filed, nor was one required.

During a telephone conversation with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigator-in-charge (IIC), on September 19, the pilot reported that he previously landed on a ridgeline near a hunting camp, and was departing to look for his own camp. He said he planned to depart northbound, slightly uphill, toward the top of the ridge. The takeoff area was tundra covered, about 900 feet long, and over 1,000 feet wide. The camp was equipped with a windsock, indicating a wind from the north about 25 knots. The pilot reported that just after liftoff, he cleared the top of the ridge, and the airplane's left wing was lifted by the wind. He attempted to counter the resulting right roll with aileron and rudder, but was unable to prevent the airplane from colliding with the ground. The airplane received damage to the landing gear, belly pod, fuselage, and left wing.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane, which resulted in a collision with terrain during takeoff/initial climb. Factors contributing to the accident were mountainous/hilly terrain, the pilot's inadequate evaluation of the wind conditions, and an unfavorable wind.