No fatalities

6 Sep 2017: CHANCEY GERRY M RV-12 NO SERIES — Dunkirk, NY

Dunkirk, NY, United States

On 6 Sep 2017, a CHANCEY GERRY M RV-12 NO SERIES was involved in an aviation accident near Dunkirk, NY. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain lateral/bank control during takeoff in crosswind conditions. This summary draws on records from NTSB.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff on runway 33 with wind from 270° at 10 knots, the pilot reported a gust of wind caused a right wing dip. The aircraft drifted, impacting terrain and a taxiway sign, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.

Accident Details

The pilot of the accident airplane reported that, during a telephone conversation with the NTSB investigator-in-charge, the airplane encountered a gust of wind immediately after takeoff. This caused the right wing to dip, and subsequently the airplane drifted to the right. The right wing impacted terrain and a taxiway sign. The pilot stated that he "lost control during takeoff."

Damage

The right wing and fuselage sustained substantial damage.

Pilot Report

The pilot did not report any preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He also failed to submit the NTSB Form 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report.

Weather Conditions

An automated weather observation station at the airport reported, about the time of the accident, wind from 270° at 10 knots. The pilot reported that the takeoff was conducted on runway 33.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotLateral/bank control — Not attained/maintained

Other contributing factors

Contributed to outcomeEffect on operation