On 14 Jun 2015, a PIPER PA 18A 150 A150 was involved in an aviation accident near Soldotna, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff in gusty crosswind conditions. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot departing from a gravel runway encountered a left gusting crosswind, causing the airplane to turn 90 degrees right after lift-off. The left main landing gear touched down, leading to a ground loop and nose-over, with substantial damage to both wings and empennage.
Incident Details
A pilot was conducting a departure from a gravel runway when a left gusting crosswind affected the airplane shortly after lift-off. According to the pilot, the airplane rapidly turned 90 degrees to the right while still in close proximity to the runway. During this maneuver, the left main landing gear tire made contact with the runway surface. The airplane subsequently entered a ground loop and then nosed over.
Aircraft Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to both wings and the empennage of the airplane. The extent of the damage was consistent with the forces experienced during the ground loop and nose-over.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot's account indicates that the airplane was functioning as expected prior to the event, with no known mechanical issues contributing to the unusual attitude following lift-off.
Contributing factors
PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedEffect on operation