N8281C

Substantial
None

PIPER PA 18S/N: 18-3689

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, March 8, 2014
NTSB Number
ANC14CA018
Location
Tanana, AK
Event ID
20140311X91431
Coordinates
65.533332, -151.916671
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The passenger inadvertently interfered with the rudder control pedal, which resulted in a loss of directional control during takeoff.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
18-3689
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1954
Model / ICAO
PA 18M600
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
PA-18A

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
THOMAS KEN C
Address
1935 SWALLOW DR
City
FAIRBANKS
State / Zip Code
AK 99709-6647
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that during the takeoff run, just before liftoff from a frozen, snow-covered lake, the ski-equipped airplane bounced over a snow drift. The pilot applied corrective action; however, rudder control inputs were momentarily unresponsive and the airplane's left wing tip contacted the snow covered lake. The pilot regained rudder authority and continued the takeoff. After the airplane became airborne the pilot learned that his rear seat passenger's foot (boot) inadvertently interfered with the rudder control pedal. The pilot continued the flight to his planned destination and landed without further incident. After landing, the pilot noted damage to the left wing, which was later classified as substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures 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# ANC14CA018