Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-18-150 near Delta Junction, AK — 2025-09-17

Final reportANC25LA108
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Date
2025-09-17
Location
Delta Junction, AK, USA
Airport
NONE
Aircraft
PIPER PA-18-150
Registration
N7777D
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from an object during takeoff, which resulted in a collision and ground loop. Contributing was the pilot’s selection of an unsuitable takeoff area.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll while departing from a remote ridgeline in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the airplane’s left wing struck a small pine tree. The airplane subsequently ground looped to the left, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage. 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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