Wasilla, AK, USA
N5045X
WAG-AERO Sportsman 2+2
The pilot reported that, during takeoff from an icy ski strip, there was a "light variable quartering tailwind from the south west." During the takeoff run, the ski- and tailwheel-equipped airplane veered left, and the pilot attempted to correct with opposite rudder. As the airplane became airborne, the left wing struck a tree, and the airplane "swung around" before coming to rest upright. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and the empennage.
The pilot reported that during takeoff from an icy ski strip, there was a "light variable quartering tailwind from the south west." During the takeoff run, the ski and tailwheel-equipped airplane veered left and the pilot attempted to correct with opposite rudder. As the airplane became airborne, the left wing struck a tree, and the airplane was "swung around" before coming to rest upright. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and empennage. An automated weather observation system located about 4 miles away from the accident airport reported, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 040° at 13 knots, gusting to 24 knots. The pilot was departing on runway 7.
The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff from an icy ski strip in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in the left wing impacting a tree.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
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