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Pilot Lost Control After Liftoff Due to Gust

Beluga Lake, AK, United States

On August 25, 2011, a PIPER PA-18-150 operated by William M. Toney, II was involved in an aviation accident near Beluga Lake, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to takeoff with an unfavorable wind which resulted in a loss of directional control, and collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot lost control of an airplane shortly after liftoff when a gust lifted the left wing, causing the right wing to strike the ground. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, and the pilot attributed the accident to unfavorable wind conditions.

Incident Overview and Damage Assessment The pilot lost control of the airplane shortly after liftoff. The loss of control occurred when a gust of wind lifted the left wing, causing the right wing to strike the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and empennage. ## Pilot Statement and Contributing Factors The pilot reported that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane. The pilot stated that the accident could have been avoided had he waited for more favorable wind conditions. The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, location, or a formal probable cause.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Other contributing factors

Contributed to outcome

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Aug 2011 PIPER PA-18-150 accident near Beluga Lake, AK?

A pilot lost control of an airplane shortly after liftoff when a gust lifted the left wing, causing the right wing to strike the ground. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, and the pilot attributed the accident to unfavorable wind conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 25 Aug 2011 PIPER PA-18-150 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Aug 2011 involved a PIPER PA-18-150, operated by William M. Toney, II, at Beluga Lake, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to takeoff with an unfavorable wind which resulted in a loss of directional control, and collision with terrain.

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