On May 31, 2003, a Cessna 150 (registration N4424U) was involved in an aviation accident near Dillon, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll, and his inadequate remedial actions during his attempt to realign the aircraft with the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During the takeoff roll, a crosswind caused the aircraft to leave the runway and hit a fence. The pilot, with extensive nose gear but limited tailwheel experience, stated he needed more tailwheel practice.
Accident Overview
During the latter stages of the takeoff roll, the aircraft encountered a crosswind that forced it laterally toward the side of the runway. The pilot made corrective inputs in an attempt to realign the aircraft with the runway centerline; however, his efforts were not sufficient, and the aircraft continued to deviate. Ultimately, the aircraft exited the prepared runway surface and subsequently struck a fence situated adjacent to the runway.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that he had accumulated 34 years of flying nose gear aircraft but only 20 hours of tailwheel time. He stated that he required more tailwheel experience before attempting takeoffs in crosswind conditions. He also indicated that he did not suspect any malfunction of the flight controls or tailwheel steering mechanism.