Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s inadequate compensation for the wind and failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot reported that he noticed the wind was picking up at the private airstrip when he landed from his fourth load of spray for the aerial application flight. During the takeoff roll of the pilot’s fifth load, as the tail was coming off the ground, a gust of wind struck the airplane and it veered towards the right. The airplane exited the runway environment and struck a power pole, substantially damaging the wings, fuselage and empennage. The nearest weather reporting station located about 13 miles to the west of the accident airstrip reported wind from 070 degrees at 13 knots gusting to 19 knots. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# WPR10CA444