N6252M

Substantial
None

Stinson 108S/N: 108-4252

Accident Details

Date
Thursday, July 2, 2020
NTSB Number
ANC20CA063
Location
Nikolai, AK
Event ID
20200702X04509
Coordinates
62.553054, -153.381940
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improper decision to depart from an unsuitable off-airport surface which resulted in a departure area excursion and impact with trees.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
STINSON
Serial Number
108-4252
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1948
Model / ICAO
108S108
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
4
FAA Model
108-3

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
ELLIOTT RUSSELL R
Address
4580 E SHAWS DR
City
WASILLA
State / Zip Code
AK 99654-4341
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that he was departing a remote off-airport landing site in his tailwheel-equipped airplane. After assessing the physical site, which was sloped on both ends and the current weather conditions, he selected a takeoff direction and a takeoff abort point. During the departure roll, the airplane failed to accelerate past 40 knots, exited the departure area and impacted brush and trees. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operations.

In the recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the pilot listed several ways that the accident could have been prevented which included a more accurate assessment of the departure site, the establishment of a more prominent takeoff abort speed/point, or if he had been more proficient in aborted takeoffs.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC20CA063