20 Jul 2008: Cessna 180 — Peter R. Smith

20 Jul 2008: Cessna 180 — Peter R. Smith

No fatalities • Lewistown, MT, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the variable and gusting winds, and his failure to maintain directional control. Contributing to the accident were variable winds that were gusting to 25 knots.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

During the initial part of his takeoff roll in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the pilot lost directional control in variable and gusting winds. During his attempt to regain control, the airplane's wing impacted the runway, resulting in bending damage to the main spar of the wing. At the time of the attempted takeoff, the winds were variable at 15 to 25 knots.

Contributing factors

  • factor Contributed to outcome
  • factor Contributed to outcome
  • cause Crosswind correction — Not attained/maintained
  • cause Directional control — Not attained/maintained

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 250/15kt, vis 10sm

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