PIPER PA-18
Aspen, CO — August 9, 2009
Event Information
| Date | August 9, 2009 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | CEN09CA544 |
| Event ID | 20090826X74839 |
| Location | Aspen, CO |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 39.22306, -106.86889 |
| Airport | Aspen-Pitkin COunty Airport |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | PIPER |
| Model | PA-18 |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 2 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate separation behind a preceding large business jet, which resulted in an encounter with wake turbulence.
Full Narrative
Prior to takeoff, the pilot was warned by tower controllers to use caution for wake turbulence from a preceding large business jet . During takeoff roll, prior to the tailwheel becoming airborne, the airplane ground-looped to the left and came to rest beside the runway. The pilot stated that the winds were calm and that he did not wait a sufficient amount of time behind the preceding airplane before starting his takeoff. Examination of the airplane revealed a bent right wing spar, bent right horizontal stabilizer and elevator.
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.