Key Facts
• On September 12, 2023, a Piper PA-18 crashed near St. Mary’s, Alaska.
• The plane was transporting hunters who had hunted a moose in the area.
• The first flight carrying moose meat to a larger airport was successful.
• The second flight, carrying 520 pounds (236 kg) of cargo, crashed after takeoff.
• The cargo exceeded the plane’s weight limit by 117 pounds (53 kg).
• Moose antlers were tied to the plane’s wings without FAA approval.
• The crash killed the pilot, Eugene Peltola, husband of Congresswoman Mary Peltola.
• The plane, over 70 years old, had most of its parts replaced.
• NTSB concluded overloading and unapproved external cargo caused the crash.
• President Biden described Eugene Peltola as a dedicated public servant and loving family man.
Summary
A small plane crash in Alaska on September 12, 2023, was caused by overloading with moose meat and antlers, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The Piper PA-18, carrying 520 pounds of cargo-117 pounds over its weight limit-crashed shortly after takeoff. Moose antlers tied to the wings without Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval further compromised the plane’s performance. The crash killed the pilot, Eugene Peltola, husband of Congresswoman Mary Peltola. The plane, over 70 years old, had undergone significant part replacements. The NTSB attributed the crash to overloading and unapproved external cargo, which severely impacted the aircraft’s flight capabilities. President Biden paid tribute to Eugene Peltola, highlighting his dedication and warmth.
