Contributing To The Accident Was (Pilot's) Impairment From The Effects Of Alcohol Consumption

Location: North Pole, Alaska Accident Number: ANC25LA036
Date & Time: April 25, 2025, 03:00 Local Registration: N9308K
Aircraft: Stinson 108 Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot departed an unknown airstrip and made an emergency landing at a US Army airfield. The left wing strut was substantially damaged and consistent with an impact with a tree. The pilot was uncooperative with first responders and smelled of alcohol and appeared to be under the influence. A police officer found an open container of alcohol in the airplane and transported the pilot to the hospital.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot's failure to maintain obstacle clearance which resulted in an in-flight collision with a tree. 

Contributing to the accident was his impairment from the effects of alcohol consumption.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov