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NTSB investigation record

ANC23LA049

Completed

Piper Pa-18· N15XX

Date
July 1, 2023
Location
Beluga, AK
Conditions
VMC
Record
Published January 25, 2024

Primary finding

Probable cause

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff site, resulting in a collision with brush-covered terrain.

Investigator assessment

Analysis narrative

The pilot landed on a remote unimproved landing strip that was surrounded by overgrown vegetation. When the pilot attempted to takeoff, the left wing struck a stand of bushes, which pivoted the airplane to the left, and he was unable to maintain control of the airplane and subsequently impacted more bushes. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

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