Casualties unknown

2004-08-14: Globe SWIFT GC-1B (N78176) — Wolfeboro, NH

Wolfeboro, NH, US

On August 14, 2004, a Globe SWIFT GC-1B (registration N78176) was involved in an aviation accident near Wolfeboro, NH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind condition. The windshear was a contributing factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a takeoff from a 3,000-foot up-sloping turf runway, the airplane became airborne with one-third of the runway remaining. Windshear caused it to sink, and the pilot banked to avoid trees but struck smaller ones, coming to rest in a field.

Accident Overview

A pilot reported that during a takeoff from Runway 32, which was 3,000 feet long, 100 feet wide, with an up-sloping turf surface and an approximate 5-degree gradient, the airplane became airborne with approximately one-third of the runway remaining. The pilot noted that he usually departed on Runway 14, but gusty winds favored Runway 32.

Sequence of Events

After becoming airborne, the airplane accelerated in ground effect. However, windshear caused the airplane to sink. With less than 1,000 feet of runway remaining and large trees at the end, the pilot decided not to abort the takeoff. He initiated a right bank to avoid the large trees, but the airplane struck smaller trees and came to rest in a field.

Environmental Conditions

The reported wind near the accident site was from the northwest at 4 knots. The runway consisted of turf with an up-sloping gradient of about 5 degrees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040819X01250. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.