Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary WPR10CA153

St. Johns, AZ, USA

Aircraft #1

N134DD

AVIAT AIRCRAFT INC A-1C-200

Analysis

Same as Factual Information

Factual Information

The pilot reported that he was departing to the southwest in the tailwheel-equipped airplane. He reported that shortly after liftoff the airplane encountered a gust of wind that "blew the aircraft sideways." Despite the pilot's control inputs, he was unable to recover and the airplane impacted the ground in a nose-low, right bank attitude. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that the winds at the time of the accident were from 200 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 37 knots. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane prior to the accident. He noted in his written statement that the accident could have been prevented if he had postponed the departure until wind conditions improved.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind gusts and failure to maintain proper runway alignment during takeoff.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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