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Pilot Reports Crosswind Difficulties Leading to Tree Strike and Forced Landing

Lebanon, OR, United States

On February 22, 2013, a LUSCOMBE 8A operated by SIEMINSKI JAMES H was involved in an aviation accident near Lebanon, OR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to compensate for a crosswind during initial climb, which resulted in a loss of control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported difficulties maintaining ground track after takeoff due to a direct crosswind, resulting in a tree strike and subsequent forced landing in a field, causing substantial damage.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot's account, shortly after takeoff, he experienced difficulties maintaining a ground track because of a direct crosswind. The airplane then struck the tops of trees at an altitude of approximately 20 feet above ground level. Because he was unable to maintain airspeed, he decided to execute a forced landing in a field.

Damage and Landing

During the forced landing, the airplane impacted several fences and ditches, causing the landing gear to collapse. Both wings and the empennage sustained substantial damage as a result of the impact.

Mechanical Status

The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedResponse/compensation

Other contributing factors

Tree(s)

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Feb 2013 LUSCOMBE 8A accident near Lebanon, OR?

A pilot reported difficulties maintaining ground track after takeoff due to a direct crosswind, resulting in a tree strike and subsequent forced landing in a field, causing substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 22 Feb 2013 LUSCOMBE 8A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Feb 2013 involved a LUSCOMBE 8A, operated by SIEMINSKI JAMES H, at Lebanon, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot’s failure to compensate for a crosswind during initial climb, which resulted in a loss of control.

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