PIPER PA-18-150

Beluga Lake, AK — August 25, 2011

Event Information

DateAugust 25, 2011
Event TypeACC
NTSB NumberANC11CA086
Event ID20110825X22531
LocationBeluga Lake, AK
CountryUSA
Coordinates61.27195, -151.77028
Highest InjuryNONE

Aircraft

MakePIPER
ModelPA-18-150
CategoryAIR
FAR Part091
Aircraft DamageSUBS

Conditions

Light ConditionDAYL
WeatherVMC

Injuries

Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
None3
Total Injured0

Event Location

Probable Cause

The pilot's decision to takeoff with an unfavorable wind which resulted in a loss of directional control, and collision with terrain.

Full Narrative

The pilot lost control of the airplane shortly after liftoff, when a gust of wind lifted the left wing and the right wing struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and empennage. The pilot said there were no mechanical problems with the airplane, and that the accident could have been avoided had he waited for more favorable wind conditions.

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.

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