Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with a ditch.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that, after filling the hopper with fertilizer (urea), during the takeoff roll to the north, he "encountered a gust of wind from the southwest." The airplane veered left, exited the airstrip to the left, and impacted a ditch. The pilot reported that the wind was 225 º at 20 knots, gusting up to 25 knots. The airplane departed to the north.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions 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# GAA19CA289