Pilot Debrief

STINSON 108-8 near Alexander Creek, AK — 2025-06-25

Final reportANC25LA058
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Date
2025-06-25
Location
Alexander Creek, AK, USA
Aircraft
STINSON 108-8
Registration
N97438
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during final approach. Contributing to the accident was the airplane’s encounter with a downdraft that led to a rapid loss of altitude.

Contributing factors

Contributing to the accident was the airplane’s encounter with a downdraft that led to a rapid loss of altitude.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, while on final approach to a remote airstrip surrounded by trees, the airplane encountered a downdraft and began a rapid descent. He attempted to recover by increasing throttle and applying aft elevator input. However, the airplane impacted the ground at a flat, nose-level attitude and subsequently nosed over, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings, right wing lift strut, vertical stabilizer, and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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