N3360P

Substantial
None

PIPER PA-18-125S/N: 18-391

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, October 20, 2012
NTSB Number
ANC13CA006
Location
Cordova, AK
Event ID
20121026X75447
Coordinates
61.241390, -147.044448
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 failure to maintain clearance from terrain during takeoff.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
18-391
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1950
Model / ICAO
PA-18-125PA18
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
PA-18-125

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
THOMAS LYNDON J
Address
4753 S PHALAROPE CR
City
WASILLA
State / Zip Code
AK 99623
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot was departing from a tidal beach in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. During the takeoff roll, the pilot stated that he lost visual reference through the windscreen because the sun was in his eyes, and he allowed the right wingtip to contact some alder brush, which forced the airplane to ground loop. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, and the left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot indicated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC13CA006