On June 21, 1999, a Cessna 180K (registration N2958K) was involved in an aviation accident near Kotzebue, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Swiss pilot reported that his airplane veered left during takeoff from a 1,700-foot off-airport site, then nosed over after pivoting. The aircraft sustained substantial damage. Wind was from the southeast at 10 knots.
Accident Overview
A Swiss foreign national pilot, holding a Swiss airline transport certificate, was attempting a southeasterly departure from an off-airport site with a 1,700-foot takeoff area. During the early stages of the takeoff roll, the airplane veered to the left. The pilot applied full right rudder in an attempt to correct the deviation, but the airplane continued off the left side of the site. It then pivoted 90 degrees to the left and nosed over.
Damage and Aircraft Modifications
The pilot stated that the airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, wings, and lift struts. He also reported that the airplane had recently been retrofitted with oversized tundra tires. No preaccident mechanical anomalies were noted.
Wind Conditions
Wind conditions at the time of the accident were reported as from the southeast at 10 knots.