On 24 Dec 2013, an AVIAT AIRCRAFT INC A-1C-200 UNDESIGNAT was involved in an aviation accident near Laural, MT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff with a gusting crosswind, which resulted in the collision with terrain. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's distraction when the door popped open. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot reported that during takeoff in gusting crosswind conditions, the airplane's door popped open, leading to a loss of control. The left wing tip struck the ground, causing the aircraft to pivot and collapse the right landing gear.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported an accident during takeoff in gusting crosswind conditions. As the airplane accelerated, the right wing lifted and the pilot was surprised by the door popping open. Attempts to level the wings were unsuccessful, and the left wing tip contacted the grass beside the runway. The aircraft pivoted, and the right landing gear collapsed upon ground contact.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wing and fuselage. The pilot noted no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that the door opened unexpectedly during the takeoff roll, which contributed to the loss of control. No other contributing factors were identified.
Contributing factors
Causes
PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained