On 30 Apr 2015, a WILLIAM D DURKEE RV-6 was involved in an aviation accident near Tunica, MS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff on runway 35, a tailwheel airplane veered left after a gust of wind moved the tail right. The pilot's rudder correction was insufficient, causing the right main landing gear to collapse and the aircraft to exit the runway.
Accident Narrative
During the takeoff roll on runway 35, the pilot reported encountering a gust of wind that moved the tail of the tailwheel-equipped airplane to the right. As a result, the airplane veered to the left. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation by applying right rudder but stated that he did not apply enough rudder input. The right main landing gear collapsed during the event, and the airplane departed the left side of the runway into the grass. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the right wing.
Weather Information
Winds reported on the field near the time of the accident were 10 knots from 280 degrees. This crosswind component may have influenced the aircraft's directional control during the takeoff roll.
Post-Accident Inspection
The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Causes
PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained