# NTSB Accident ANC97FA026
> **Piper PA-18** · 1997-02-07 · CIRCLE, AK, USA · FATL
## Event
- **NTSB number:** ANC97FA026
- **Event ID:** 20001208X07367
- **Type:** Accident
- **Date:** 1997-02-07
- **Location:** CIRCLE, AK, USA
- **Coordinates:** 65.790077, -144.19989
## Injuries
- **Highest injury:** FATL
- **Fatal:** 1
- **Serious:** 0
- **Minor:** 0
- **Uninjured:** 0
- **Total aboard:** 1
## Aircraft
- **Make:** Piper
- **Model:** PA-18
- **Registration:** N121BB
- **FAR Part:** 091
- **Engines:** 1
- **Damage:** DEST
## Conditions
- **Light:** DAYL
- **Weather:** VMC
## Probable cause

inadequate preflight by the pilot; and his subsequent loss of aircraft control, during the initial climb after takeoff.  Factors relating to the accident were: the pilot failed to ensure that the cargo was properly secured, and he allowed the aircraft's weight and balance limitations to be exceeded.

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*Source: [NTSB CAROL](https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/basic-search?source=ntsb&type=event&ntsb_number=ANC97FA026) · AI Analytics · CC0 1.0*