On September 14, 2000, a Champion 7GCBC (registration N9654S) operated by Gary R. Brown was involved in an aviation accident near Sparrevohn, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions. Factors associated with the accident were variable winds, and a crosswind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot's takeoff from a remote sand bar ended in an uncontrolled descent and collision with an embankment after a gust of wind rolled the airplane 90 degrees, causing substantial damage.
Accident Overview
A certificated commercial pilot initiated a southwesterly takeoff run from a 1,500-foot-long remote sand bar. Shortly after lift-off, as the airplane began to climb, a strong gust of wind from the right lifted the right wing and rolled the airplane approximately 90 degrees. The pilot applied full right aileron to counteract the roll, which leveled the wings, but the airplane entered an uncontrolled descent. It continued descending and struck an embankment, resulting in substantial damage to the wings, wing lift struts, and fuselage.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane. No further information regarding the cause of the accident was provided in the source material.