10 May 2012: PIPER PA-18-150 — JAMES W. WATSON

10 May 2012: PIPER PA-18-150 — JAMES W. WATSON

No fatalities • Gakona, AK, United States

Probable cause

The pilot’s decision to take off in variable wind conditions, which resulted in a loss of control and the airplane striking an object after takeoff.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot was departing from a remote, 800-foot long gravel-covered airstrip, in variable wind conditions. He said that during his southerly takeoff roll, just before liftoff, a gust of wind pushed the airplane to the right. As the airplane became airborne, he felt a "bump" but he noted no control or vibration problems. After an uneventful landing at his destination airport, an inspection revealed substantial damage to the lower portion of the airplane's rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

Contributing factors

  • cause Pilot
  • Contributed to outcome
  • cause Performance/control parameters — Not attained/maintained
  • cause Pilot

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 000/15kt, vis 10sm

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