On August 19, 1998, a Cessna 180 (registration N180WH) was involved in an aviation accident near Cordova, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff. Factors associated with the accident were soft airstrip conditions, and trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a southerly departure from a 1,300-foot gravel airstrip, a tailwheel airplane's left wheel encountered soft ground, causing the aircraft to veer left and strike trees. The right main landing gear collapsed, resulting in substantial damage.
Accident Overview
An airline transport pilot was attempting a southerly departure from a 1,300-foot-long gravel airstrip in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. During the takeoff roll, approximately midway down the airstrip, the airplane's left wheel dug into an area of soft ground. This caused the airplane to veer to the left, and the left wing subsequently struck a stand of trees bordering the airstrip.
Sequence of Events
After the wing strike, the airplane pivoted about 90 degrees to the left. The right main landing gear then collapsed, and the right wing struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage as a result of the accident.
Pilot's Observations
The pilot noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.