On April 3, 1991, a Piper PA-25-235D (registration N54917) operated by Peter A. Cummings was involved in an aviation accident near Chesapeake, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILUE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED AFTER THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff with a 20-knot crosswind, a pilot lost directional control, veered left, and struck a taxiway sign. The pilot noted insufficient crosswind instruction.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported losing control during a takeoff roll after being cleared for departure by the control tower. The tower had advised that the wind was from 320 degrees at 20 knots. During the takeoff, the aircraft veered to the left. The pilot applied right aileron and right rudder as corrective action, but the efforts did not prevent the aircraft from departing the left side of the runway.
Sequence of Events
After the aircraft went off the runway, it struck a taxiway sign. The pilot did not report any other damage or injuries. The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented with additional instruction and practice in crosswind and gust conditions.
Pilot Statement
The pilot explicitly noted that the lack of sufficient training in crosswind and gusty wind operations contributed to the inability to maintain directional control. The pilot's statement emphasized the need for more hands-on experience in such conditions.