Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary WPR11CA418

Dorris, CA, USA

Aircraft #1

N2868A

CHRISTEN INDUSTRIES INC A-1

Analysis

The pilot stated that he flew to a nearby airport to practice touch-and-go takeoffs and landings. After his first touchdown, he applied power for takeoff and, as his airplane lifted off, he encountered a strong wind gust from his left side. He applied left aileron, but his right wing tip contacted the ground. The airplane cartwheeled and came to rest upright. The airplane immediately burst into flames and was consumed by the fire. The closest weather station, located 19 nautical miles from the airport, reported the wind at 280 degrees at 12 knots. The pilot reported that the wind was from the northwest at 15 knots, gusting to 20 knots.

Factual Information

The pilot stated that he flew to a nearby airport to practice touch-and-go landings. After his first touchdown, he applied power for takeoff and as his airplane lifted off, he encountered a strong wind gust from his left side. He applied left aileron, but his right wing tip contacted the ground. The airplane cartwheeled and came to rest upright. The airplane immediately burst into flames and was consumed by the fire. The closest weather station, located 19 nautical miles from the airport, reported the wind at 280 degrees for 12 knots. The pilot reported that the wind was from the northwest at 15 knots, gusting to 20 knots.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to maintain lateral aircraft control while taking off with a gusting crosswind.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

Get all the details on your iPhone or iPad with:

Aviation Accidents App

In-Depth Access to Aviation Accident Reports