NTB details Wrangell plane crash findings

The National Transportation Safety Board has released preliminary findings regarding a fatal aircraft accident in the Wrangell Mountains. The report addresses the crash of a Piper PA-18-150 that occurred on Sept. 17, claiming the lives of two individuals.

The flight originated from a dirt airstrip in the Palmer area. The pilot intended to transport a moose packer to a camp along Snag Creek and then proceed to a second camp 10 miles east. Employees witnessed the preflight inspection and the takeoff at approximately 7:30 p.m. They reported no unusual behavior during the departure sequence.

Shortly after liftoff, ground personnel heard sounds described as metal popping. The aircraft landed on the ground on the opposite side of the creek. It came to rest approximately 750 feet from the runway. Weather conditions were favorable, with light winds reported during the flight.

Investigators noted that all major components of the airplane remained attached and present at the scene. The fuselage was separated forward of the control stick. The instrument panel and firewall were also detached from the main body. The plane has been removed from the site for further analysis.

Laboratory testing found no water in the aircraft's fuel. The oil screen was found to be clean and free of obstruction. The report does not list a suspected cause for the accident.

The two people killed in the crash were Cabot Pitts, 42, of Palmer, and Connor Helsel, 18, of Michigan. They were the only fatalities. The NTSB continues its investigation into the incident.