Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot-in-command not maintaining the proper clearance from the terrain during the approach.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During an approach to an ice frozen lake, the plane, piloted by a non-certificated pilot, collided with a tree. In august 1971, the pilot's application for a medical certificate was denied by the federal air surgeon. The pilot reported that for the past twenty years he had been taking an anti-seizure medication on a daily basis without any recurring problems.
Source record
Factual narrative
On December 23, 1993, at 1500 Alaska Standard Time, a wheel-ski equipped Piper PA-18 airplane, N7121P, collided with a tree and crashed during an approach to a frozen lake located about 3 miles southeast of Port Alsworth, Alaska. The non certificated pilot-in-command, the sole occupant, received minor injuries, and the airplane was substantially damaged. The local personal flight, operating under 14 CFR Part 91, departed Port Alsworth at 1430 and the intended destination was the frozen lake. Visual meteorological conditions existed, and no flight plan was filed. In August of 1971, the pilot's application for a medical certificate was denied by the Federal Air Surgeon. The pilot reported that for the past twenty years he had been taking an anti-seizure medication on a daily basis without any recurring problems. -