Casualties unknown

Pilot Loses Directional Control During Takeoff Roll in Gusty Conditions (N7511D)

Missoula, MT, US

On May 3, 1987, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N7511D) operated by Gary D. Macfadden was involved in an aviation accident near Missoula, MT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot practicing touch-and-go landings lost directional control during a takeoff roll after a gust lifted the right wing. The aircraft veered off the runway, struck a clump of earth, and nosed over.

Incident Overview

A private pilot was conducting touch-and-go landing practice. During a takeoff roll, a gust of wind lifted the right wing, causing the aircraft to veer to the left and depart the runway. The pilot lost directional control, and the aircraft taxied through high grass parallel to the runway.

Sequence of Events

While accelerating for takeoff, a sudden gust of wind acted on the aircraft. The right wing lifted, and the aircraft was pushed leftward off the runway surface. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control. The aircraft continued moving through tall grass adjacent to the runway. During this off-runway excursion, the nose wheel struck a clump of earth, which caused the nose gear to collapse. The aircraft then nosed over and came to rest inverted.

Pilot Comments

Following the incident, the pilot remarked that he needed more experience with crosswind takeoffs and landings.

Damage

The aircraft sustained damage to the nose landing gear and likely to the propeller and airframe due to the inverted position. Specific damage items are not detailed in the source.

Investigation Status

No investigation authority or findings have been stated. The source provides no probable cause analysis or contributing factors beyond the pilot's self-assessment.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30911. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.