N8648V

On September 5, 1996, about 1130 Alaska daylight time, a wheel equipped Bellanca 8GCBC airplane, N8648V, was destroyed when it collided with terrain during takeoff from an off airport site located about 50 miles southwest of Iliamna, Alaska. The solo, airline transport certificated pilot received minor injuries. The personal, 14 CFR Part 91 flight operated in visual meteorological conditions without a flight plan. The flight last departed Iliamna, Alaska, about 0800.

The pilot reported he landed at the off airport site to go hunting. He said the wind was blowing stronger than he had anticipated, and he felt the airplane would be damaged if he attempted to park it. The pilot estimated the wind to be from the east, at 30, gusting to 40 knots. He decided to takeoff instead of hunting. Shortly after takeoff, at an estimated 100 feet above the ground, he said a strong wind gust caused the airplane to turn to the right and downwind. The airplane begin to lose airspeed and descend, and the pilot said he was unable to maintain altitude or climb. The airplane struck the ground firmly in a wings level attitude, and then rolled onto its left side.