Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane while taking off with a gusting crosswind.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
The pilot reported he was taking off in his tailwheel-equipped airplane on a turf runway in a gusty, left crosswind. As the airplane accelerated, a gust of wind resulted in it momentarily becoming airborne. The airplane settled back to the runway in a left wing down attitude, and the left main landing gear contacted brush on the left side of the runway. The airplane ground looped to the left, striking the right wing and right horizontal stabilizer on the runway. The right wing, right horizontal stabilizer, and empennage sustained substantial damage. The pilot indicated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC11CA096