Aircraft Loss of Control During Takeoff at Tahlequah Municipal Airport

Casualties unknown • Tahlequah, OK, US

An aircraft experienced a loss of control during takeoff from runway 17 due to wind gusts, resulting in an inverted impact on the runway.

What happened

During the takeoff roll from runway 17 at Tahlequah Municipal Airport, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. A sudden gust of wind caused the airplane to pitch up to a 25-30 degree nose-up attitude and induced a right roll.

In an attempt to maintain control, the pilot lowered the aircraft's nose. Despite this correction, the airplane drifted toward the right side of the runway. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground on its right wing and came to rest in an inverted position. No injuries were reported.

Weather conditions at the time of the accident were notable for instability. At 0953, the nearest weather station at Davis Field, located 23 nautical miles southwest of the airport, reported winds from 110 degrees at 14 knots, with gusts reaching 23 knots. Additionally, a witness reported observing "dust devils" near the airport vicinity during the time of the accident.

Probable cause

A gust of wind caused the aircraft to pitch up and roll right during takeoff, leading to a loss of control and subsequent runway excursion.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-09-12 Stinson 108-1 accident near Tahlequah, OK?

An aircraft experienced a loss of control during takeoff from runway 17 due to wind gusts, resulting in an inverted impact on the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-09-12 involved a Stinson 108-1, registration N8548K, at Tahlequah, OK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A gust of wind caused the aircraft to pitch up and roll right during takeoff, leading to a loss of control and subsequent runway excursion.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11059. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…