On April 19, 2015, a PIPER PA 18A 150 was involved in an aviation accident near Nondalton, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane while taking off with a gusting crosswind. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot on a personal cross-country flight in a tailwheel airplane sustained serious injuries after losing directional control during takeoff, climbing to 10 feet, and impacting a ditch parallel to the runway. No mechanical anomalies were reported.
Accident Details
A pilot was conducting a personal cross-country flight in a single-engine tailwheel airplane. During the takeoff ground roll, the pilot lost directional control. He then initiated takeoff, climbing to an altitude of about 10 feet before losing altitude and impacting a ditch that runs parallel to the runway.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that while a strong crosswind was present during landing, he did not expect it to affect the airplane on takeoff. He reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Damage and Injuries
The airplane sustained substantial damage in the impact. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, suffered serious injuries.
What happened in the 19 Apr 2015 PIPER PA 18A 150 accident near Nondalton, AK?
A pilot on a personal cross-country flight in a tailwheel airplane sustained serious injuries after losing directional control during takeoff, climbing to 10 feet, and impacting a ditch parallel to the runway. No mechanical anomalies were reported.
Were there any fatalities in the 19 Apr 2015 PIPER PA 18A 150 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Apr 2015 involved a PIPER PA 18A 150, at Nondalton, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane while taking off with a gusting crosswind.
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