Casualties unknown

1993-04-25: Champion 7GCBA (N9902Y) — Scott D. Anderson — Duluth, MN

Duluth, MN, US

On April 25, 1993, a Champion 7GCBA (registration N9902Y) operated by Scott D. Anderson was involved in an aviation accident near Duluth, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in the right wingtip striking water. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempted a second takeoff following a three-point landing in light crosswind conditions but lost directional control, resulting in the right wing striking lake water and causing substantial damage to the aircraft.

What happened

Following a successful three-point landing, the pilot initiated power application for an immediate subsequent takeoff attempt. The maneuver was conducted in light crosswind conditions. As the aircraft accelerated down the runway, it became airborne while maintaining a slight right bank.

During the initial climb phase, the pilot was unable to maintain directional control of the aircraft. Consequently, the right wingtip struck the surface of a nearby lake. The impact caused substantial damage to the airframe and forced the aircraft to pivot approximately 180 degrees from its intended heading before coming to a complete rest.

The investigation

Examination of the event revealed that the loss of directional control occurred during the transition from ground roll to flight. The structural damage was concentrated on the right wingtip area due to contact with the water surface. No mechanical failures or pre-existing defects were cited as contributing factors in the narrative provided.

Findings

The primary factor leading to the accident was the pilot's inability to maintain directional control during takeoff. Contributing circumstances included the light crosswind conditions and the decision to attempt a second takeoff immediately following a three-point landing without sufficient airspeed or altitude margin to correct the bank angle.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in the right wingtip striking water.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12098. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.