On January 13, 1994, a Stinson 108-1 (registration N8286K) operated by Milford W. Donaldson was involved in an aviation accident near Rubidoux, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for the existing cross wind condition. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff on runway 6 with strong crosswinds, the aircraft drifted right after liftoff and struck a chain link fence about 60 feet from the runway edge. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions.
Incident Overview
The pilot of an aircraft reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions during the flight. The incident occurred during takeoff on runway 6. The pilot stated that winds were from 340 degrees at 20 knots, with gusts to 25 knots.
Sequence of Events
Just after liftoff, the aircraft began drifting to the right. The pilot reported that he could not correct the ground track before the aircraft collided with a chain link fence that borders the airport. The fence was located approximately 60 feet from the edge of the runway.
Pilot Report
The pilot explicitly stated that there were no mechanical issues with the aircraft. The reported wind conditions indicated a significant crosswind component for runway 6, which has a heading of approximately 060 degrees. The wind direction of 340 degrees would create a crosswind from the left, potentially causing the right drift observed.