On 25 Aug 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 take off during unfavorable wind conditions, which led to a loss of directional control and a collision with the ground. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot lost control of a Piper PA-18-150 during takeoff at Beluga Lake due to an unfavorable wind gust.
What happened
On August 25, 2011, a PIPER PA-18-150, registration N8491Y, was involved in an accident shortly after liftoff from Beluga Lake, Alaska. During the takeoff phase, a gust of wind lifted the left wing of the aircraft, causing the right wing to strike the ground. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the empennage and the left wing. The pilot reported no injuries following the event.
The investigation
The pilot stated that there were no mechanical issues with the aircraft at the time of the accident. The pilot also noted that the accident could have been avoided if the takeoff had been delayed for more favorable wind conditions.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to take off during unfavorable wind conditions, which led to a loss of directional control and a collision with the ground.
Contributing factors
Causes
PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained