Nabesna, United States: A Piper PA-18 Super Cub crashed shortly after taking off from a dirt airstrip near Nabesna, Alaska, on 17 September 2026, killing both people aboard, according to the Alaska State Troopers and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Troopers received a report of the fatal crash at about 7:51 p.m. local time.
The aircraft crashed after departing from a dirt airstrip in the Nabesna area, with the NTSB identifying the airstrip as being near Snag Creek, about 50 miles southeast of Nabesna. Nabesna is located in the northern part of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. The two occupants were the only people aboard the aircraft and both were confirmed dead. Their identities had not been released as authorities worked to notify their next of kin.
The circumstances leading to the crash remain unknown. No information has been released on a mechanical failure, weather conditions, pilot actions or any other possible contributing factor. The Alaska State Troopers said the NTSB had been notified and would investigate the cause of the accident.
NTSB investigator Millicent Hill said investigators were hoping to reach the crash site within three days. “Everything is still really early. We’re still gathering facts. There’ll be a preliminary report after we’re able to get on scene and get more information,” Hill told Alaska Public Media.
Further details, including the aircraft registration, ownership or operator, the identities of those aboard and the intended destination or route, have not been publicly released. The investigation is ongoing and additional information is expected after NTSB investigators reach the crash site.
