Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The flight instructor's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in gusting crosswind conditions.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The flight instructor in the amphibious float-equipped weight-shift controlled trike reported that, he was demonstrating multiple touch-and-go landings for the student pilot, who was in the front seat of the tandem seat trike. He added that during the final approach, wind was "light and variable" and the landing was "smooth and stable." He further added that as power was applied to takeoff, a "gust of wind and dust came in from our left and got under the wing." Subsequently, the trike veered off the runway to the right and rolled over.
The wing and fuselage sustained substantial damage.
The flight instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the trike that would have precluded normal operation.
An automated weather observation station, at the accident airport, about the time of the accident, recorded wind 330° at 9 knots. The flight instructor reported the takeoff was on runway 5.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA17CA292