Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA18 near Anchor Point, AK — 2016-08-16

Final reportGAA16CA436
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Date
2016-08-16
Location
Anchor Point, AK, USA
Aircraft
PIPER PA18
Registration
N8097N
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from obstacles while landing on a coastal beach.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that during landing on a coastal beach, the airplane's left wing struck a driftwood tree branch that protruded from a higher berm. The airplane subsequently spun to the left, which resulted in substantial damage to the elevator and both ailerons. The pilot further reported that he had seen the tree but not the branch on his initial flight over the landing area while looking for debris. The pilot reported that there were no pre impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine 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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