Preliminary report details Wrangell crash sequence

The National Transportation Safety Board has issued its preliminary findings regarding the Sept. 17 crash in the Wrangell Mountains that claimed two lives. The report confirms the aircraft, a Piper PA-18-150, was operating a scheduled run to transport a packer to a moose camp along the Snag Creek. The plane was also tasked with a second leg to a camp located about 10 miles east of the initial destination.

Witnesses on the ground described the takeoff around 7:30 p.m. as unremarkable following a standard preflight check. Employees heard a sound they identified as metal popping shortly after the aircraft left the dirt airstrip. The plane came to rest on the opposite side of the creek, approximately 750 feet from the runway. Weather conditions at the time were favorable for flight, with only light winds recorded.

Investigators noted that all major components of the aircraft remained at the crash site. The fuselage was found separated forward of the control stick, with the instrument panel and firewall also detached from the main body. The aircraft was removed from the scene for deeper mechanical analysis. Lab tests on the fuel showed no presence of water, and the engine's oil screen was found to be clean and free of debris.

The two individuals killed in the accident were identified as Cabot Pitts, 42, of Palmer, and Connor Helsel, 18, of Michigan. They were the only fatalities. The preliminary report does not yet assign a suspected cause to the crash. The NTSB is continuing its investigation as part of the ongoing inquiry.