ANC21LA075

The pilot reported that, during takeoff from a private gravel-covered airstrip, the control stick “jammed” as the airplane climbed between 10 and 15 ft above ground level. Because the pilot and the passenger were both unable to move the control stick at their positions, the pilot closed the engine throttle to attempt an emergency landing. The airplane landed in an area of tree-covered terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical problems that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane. The cause of this accident could not be determined from the available evidence.

On August 9, 2021, about 2030 Alaska daylight time, a Piper PA-18 airplane, N1264A, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Talkeetna, Alaska. The pilot and the passenger sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The pilot reported that, during takeoff from a private gravel-covered airstrip, the control stick “jammed” as the airplane climbed between 10 and 15 ft above ground level. The pilot noted that she was unable to move the control stick forward and aft or left to right. To regain elevator and aileron control, the pilot asked the passenger, who was in the aft seat, to assist using the control stick installed in that position, but he was unable to move the control stick. The pilot then decided to close the engine throttle and attempt an emergency landing. Subsequently, the airplane landed in an area of tree-covered terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. Postaccident examination of the airplane found no preaccident mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Specifically, examination of the forward and aft control stick mechanisms found no obstructions, and the mechanisms operated with a full range of motion. Also, control cable continuity was established.