Floatplane rollover during takeoff due to wind gusts

Casualties unknown • Iliamna, AK, US

A pilot attempting to reposition a float-equipped aircraft between lakes experienced a wing strike and rollover during takeoff due to gusty wind conditions.

What happened

A pilot was attempting to depart from a small lake in a float-equipped airplane to reposition to a larger nearby lake. As the pilot applied takeoff power, the left wing was immediately lifted by gusty winds. Despite the application of left aileron, the aircraft continued to roll to the right. The right wing subsequently contacted the water, causing the aircraft to either nose over or roll over.

The pilot noted that the gusty winds from the north might have been influenced by a nearby hill adjacent to the lake. Prior to the departure from the remote location, the pilot had used a satellite phone to check weather conditions for both the departure area and the intended destination. The weather report indicated that the destination was experiencing turbulence and gusty winds. At the time of the incident, the nearest weather reporting station, located 30 miles away, had reported winds of 13 knots from the north.

Probable cause

Gusty wind conditions during the takeoff roll caused the aircraft to roll to the right and strike the water.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-09-15 Piper PA-18 accident near Iliamna, AK?

A pilot attempting to reposition a float-equipped aircraft between lakes experienced a wing strike and rollover during takeoff due to gusty wind conditions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-09-15 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N3795Z, at Iliamna, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Gusty wind conditions during the takeoff roll caused the aircraft to roll to the right and strike the water.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030916X01548. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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