No fatalities

29 May 2011: CESSNA 140 — Bryan K Holland — Chickaloon, AK

Chickaloon, AK, United States

On 29 May 2011, a CESSNA 140 operated by Bryan K Holland was involved in an aviation accident near Chickaloon, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper decision to take off downwind from unsuitable terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot departing from a short, rough field with a tailwind experienced a stronger tailwind at 100 feet, causing the airplane to stop climbing. Unable to out-climb rising terrain, the airplane impacted trees, resulting in substantial damage.

Incident Overview

A private pilot was conducting a departure from a short, rough field. The pilot reported that he chose to depart with a tailwind due to the slope of the takeoff area.

Sequence of Events

Approximately 100 feet above the ground, the airplane encountered a stronger tailwind, which caused it to stop climbing. The pilot did not turn away from the rising terrain because he believed the airplane would stall if he did so. As a result, the airplane was unable to out-climb the rising terrain and subsequently impacted trees.

Outcome

The airplane sustained substantial damage to its wings and fuselage. No injuries were reported, and the pilot was the sole occupant.

Contributing factors

Causes

Capability exceededPilot

Other contributing factors

Contributed to outcome