On August 8, 1982, a Piper PA-20 (registration N1836A) operated by David Ascher was involved in an aviation accident near Burlington, CT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff on Runway 19 with a right crosswind, a strong gust caused the aircraft to veer left. The pilot turned left to avoid a culvert opening, then could not slow on a downgrade with a quartering tailwind. The left wing tip struck a tree.
Incident Overview
The pilot began the takeoff roll on Runway 19 in the presence of a right crosswind. According to reports, a strong gust of wind was encountered, causing the aircraft to veer off the left side of the runway. The aircraft headed toward the opening of a culvert that passed under the runway.
Pilot Actions
To avoid the culvert opening, the pilot turned the aircraft further left. Following the left turn, the pilot was unable to slow the aircraft as it proceeded downhill with a quartering tailwind. The pilot attempted to maneuver the aircraft between the culvert opening and a tree, but the left wing tip struck the tree.
Wind Conditions
The wind was estimated to be from 270 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 35 knots.