On August 7, 2007, a Piper PA-18 (registration N39302) operated by William H. Woodin was involved in an aviation accident near King Salmon, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for a crosswind during the takeoff roll, which resulted in a loss of control, and an on-ground encounter with terrain. A factor in the accident was a crosswind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A commercial pilot's tailwheel airplane struck its right wing on the ground during a crosswind takeoff from an off-airport site, resulting in structural damage to the wing and empennage.
Accident Description
A commercial certificated pilot was conducting a personal flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91. The departure was from an off-airport site in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. The pilot reported a left crosswind during the northwesterly takeoff roll.
Event Sequence
During the takeoff roll, the airplane's left wing lifted, causing the right wing to strike the ground. This action pivoted the airplane to the right. The airplane sustained structural damage to the right wing and empennage as a result of the ground contact.
Pilot Report
The pilot noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane. No further details regarding the pilot's actions or environmental conditions were provided in the source.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in structural damage to the right wing and empennage. The extent of damage to other components was not specified.