Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to compensate for the strong, gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a loss of airplane control during takeoff.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot aligned the airplane into the wind and proceeded with the takeoff roll. As the airplane got airborne a gust of wind lifted the right wing and the left wing tip contacted the ground despite the pilot's application of full right aileron. The airplane was pulled to the left by the ground contact and came to rest on its nose facing the opposite direction of intended travel. During the accident sequence the airplane sustained substantial damage to the outboard sections of both wings and the left lift strut. The pilot estimated that the wind was 38 knots gusting to 42 knots. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# WPR13CA117