Pilot dies after experimental aircraft crashes during maiden flight in Wasilla

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – The pilot who died in a plane crash in Wasilla on Saturday has been identified as Jon Bergstedt, 71, of Anchorage, Alaska State Troopers said.

Bergstedt was piloting an experimental aircraft similar to a Piper PA 12. He died when the plane crashed in a residential neighborhood in Wasilla on Saturday morning.

The plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Anderson Lake Strip Airport and was reported to the National Transportation Safety Board around 9:30 a.m. It was the plane's maiden flight, the NTSB said. A witness at the scene said he heard the crash and saw the burning plane around 9:30 a.m.

Next of kin have been notified. The aircraft has been seized for investigation by the NTSB.

The NTSB is asking anyone who witnessed the crash to contact [email protected].

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