On August 17, 2003, a Piper PA-12 (registration N2941M) was involved in an aviation accident near Tyonek, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to adequately compensate for wind conditions and maintain aircraft control during the initial climb, which resulted in a loss of control and in-flight collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A tailwheel airplane collided with a log hidden in brush after a gust of wind caused a loss of control during takeoff from an off-airport site with a left crosswind.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported that while taking off in a tailwheel airplane from an off-airport site, a direct left crosswind of approximately 12 knots was present. Shortly after liftoff, a gust of wind pushed the airplane sideways and downward. The pilot indicated an inability to control or stop the descent, resulting in a collision with a log concealed in brush.
Aircraft Damage
The impact caused structural damage to the fuselage and elevator of the airplane.
Pilot Statement
According to the pilot, the gust occurred immediately after becoming airborne, and despite control inputs, the descent could not be arrested. The log was not visible due to the brush, contributing to the collision.