On 9 Aug 2009, a PIPER PA-18 operated by CULWELL CHARLES W DBA was involved in an aviation accident near Aspen, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate separation behind a preceding large business jet, which resulted in an encounter with wake turbulence. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff, a pilot warned about wake turbulence from a preceding business jet experienced a ground loop to the left after failing to allow sufficient separation.
Incident Summary
A pilot was advised by air traffic control to exercise caution for wake turbulence from a larger business jet that had departed ahead. During the takeoff roll, before the tailwheel lifted off, the aircraft veered left in a ground loop and came to rest adjacent to the runway.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that winds were calm at the time of the incident. He acknowledged that he had not waited an adequate amount of time behind the preceding jet before initiating his takeoff.
Aircraft Damage
Inspection of the airplane revealed structural damage including a bent right wing spar, a bent right horizontal stabilizer, and a bent right elevator.