PIPER PA 18-135
Susitna, AK — September 13, 2014
Event Information
| Date | September 13, 2014 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | ANC14CA079 |
| Event ID | 20140913X30608 |
| Location | Susitna, AK |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 61.71000, -151.52000 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | PIPER |
| Model | PA 18-135 |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for gusting, variable wind conditions during initial climb after takeoff.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that he was departing from a wet and soft off-airport site, in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, during gusty wind conditions. He stated that shortly after takeoff, as the airplane neared the departure end of the site, the headwind abruptly decreased, and the airplane subsequently descended into an area of brush-covered terrain at the end of the site. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.