On July 3, 1996, a Piper PA-18 (registration N57617) was involved in an aviation accident near Cantwell, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions. A factor in the accident was the crosswind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A tailwheel airplane departing a remote sandy area at 1,940 ft elevation with 70°F temperature encountered a gust of wind pushing it into alder trees, followed by a ground loop that damaged the left wing spar and aileron.
Incident Details
A pilot and a passenger were departing a remote, sandy area in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. The pilot had previously used this location many times. The takeoff area was at an elevation of approximately 1,940 feet above mean sea level, and the temperature was about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Wind conditions were variable, with gusts up to 25 knots coming from the left side of the takeoff area.
Sequence of Events
During the takeoff roll, a gust of wind pushed the airplane to the right into several alder trees. The airplane then ground looped. The event resulted in damage to the left wing spar and left aileron.
Damage
The airplane sustained damage to the left wing spar and left aileron. No other damage or injuries are reported in the source.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Jul 1996 Piper PA-18 accident near Cantwell, AK?
A tailwheel airplane departing a remote sandy area at 1,940 ft elevation with 70°F temperature encountered a gust of wind pushing it into alder trees, followed by a ground loop that damaged the left wing spar and aileron.
Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jul 1996 Piper PA-18 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Jul 1996 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N57617, at Cantwell, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions. A factor in the accident was the crosswind.
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