On March 21, 1995, a Piper PA-18 (registration N99MP) was involved in an aviation accident near Gail, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft during a low-altitude turn in gusty winds, resulting in terrain impact. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A light aircraft crashed while executing a low-altitude turn during a coyote eradication mission, with the pilot reporting an unexpected wing rise and loss of control in gusty winds.
What happened
The accident occurred when the airplane struck terrain during a right-hand turn at low altitude. The flight was being conducted under predator control operations aimed at eradicating coyotes from a sheep ranch. At the time of the incident, weather conditions in the area were characterized by winds gusting up to 40 knots.
The pilot reported that the left wing unexpectedly rose during the maneuver. Despite efforts to regain control, the pilot was unable to recover the aircraft before it impacted the ground.
The investigation
Investigation of the event focused on the circumstances surrounding the loss of control. The primary mechanical and operational finding centered on the pilot's account of the left wing rising abruptly during a low-altitude turn in high wind conditions.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft during a low-altitude turn in gusty winds, resulting in terrain impact.
What happened in the 21 Mar 1995 Piper PA-18 accident near Gail, TX?
A light aircraft crashed while executing a low-altitude turn during a coyote eradication mission, with the pilot reporting an unexpected wing rise and loss of control in gusty winds.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Mar 1995 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N99MP, at Gail, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft during a low-altitude turn in gusty winds, resulting in terrain impact.
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