Aviation Accident Summary ANC12CA101

Ekwok, AK, USA

Aircraft #1

N4127Z

PIPER PA-18-150

Analysis

The pilot was taking off near a river bank in a float-equipped airplane. During the initial climb, the pilot was distracted by the water rudders and looked inside the airplane. During that moment of inattention, the airplane turned toward the river bank and impacted trees. There were no reported preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The pilot was taking off near a river bank in a float-equipped airplane. During takeoff initial climb the pilot was distracted by the water rudders, and looked inside the airplane. During that moment of inattention, the airplane turned toward the river bank, and impacted trees. There were no reported mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to the accident.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's diverted attention during the initial climb, which resulted in a collision with trees.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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