N2997M

Substantial
None

PIPER PA-12S/N: 12-1472

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, April 4, 2009
NTSB Number
ANC09CA028
Location
Skwentna, AK
Event ID
20090407X25858
Coordinates
61.965278, -151.191390
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing/takeoff area with an unfavorable wind.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N2997M
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
12-1472
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1946
Model / ICAO
PA-12PA12
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
WIITA CHRIS D
Address
1120 HUFFMAN RD # 376
Status
Deregistered
City
ANCHORAGE
State / Zip Code
AK 99515-3561
Country
United States

Analysis

The private pilot reported that before landing on the frozen snow-covered lake in a ski-equipped airplane, he intended to do a touch-and-go landing to check the snow conditions. He said that variable and gusty north-northwesterly winds required him to depart into an area of rising, tree-covered terrain. After landing to the northwest, he added full engine power, and the airplane became airborne, but would not climb fast enough to out climb the rising terrain. In the pilot's written statement to the NTSB he stated, in part: "Failed to fully recognize situation in time to abort departure..." The pilot indicated that the airplane collided with tree-covered terrain at the departure end of the lake. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. The pilot indicated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC09CA028