Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary WPR13CA133

Lebanon, OR, USA

Aircraft #1

N1192K

LUSCOMBE 8A

Analysis

The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff, he had difficulty maintaining his intended ground track due to a direct crosswind, and that the airplane subsequently struck the tops of trees, about 20 feet above ground level. Unable to maintain airspeed, he chose to land the airplane in a field. During the forced landing, the airplane impacted several fences and ditches, and the landing gear collapsed. Both wings and the empennage sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, he had difficulties maintaining a ground track due to a direct crosswind, and the airplane subsequently struck the tops of trees, about 20 feet above ground level. Unable to maintain airspeed, he elected to land the airplane in a field. During the forced landing the airplane impacted several fences and ditches. The landing gear collapsed, and both wings and empennage sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to compensate for a crosswind during initial climb, which resulted in a loss of control.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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