On June 16, 1986, a Stinson 108-1 (registration N97201) operated by Taigh E. Ramey was involved in an aviation accident near Quincy, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff in crosswind conditions, compounded by inadequate proficiency in this specific aircraft type. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot lost directional control during a crosswind takeoff attempt and aborted, causing the landing gear to collapse into a drainage ditch.
What happened
The commercial pilot and certified flight instructor attempted to initiate takeoff while conditions included a left crosswind component of approximately 40 degrees with wind speeds ranging from 15 to 25 knots. During the ground roll, the pilot lost directional control of the aircraft. In an effort to abort the takeoff, the landing gear collapsed, and the aircraft subsequently collided with a nearby drainage ditch.
The investigation
Review of the pilot's qualifications revealed a total flight time of 506 hours. However, only six hours of that experience were logged specifically in this model of aircraft.
Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff in crosswind conditions, compounded by inadequate proficiency in this specific aircraft type.