Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA18CA290

Vashon, WA, USA

Aircraft #1

N1423P

PIPER PA 14

Analysis

According to the pilot in the tailwheel-equipped airplane, his right foot inadvertently applied pressure to both rudder pedals during the takeoff roll. The airplane exited the left side of the runway, and the left wing struck a tree. The airplane ground looped to the left, and the right wingtip struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing, elevator, and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

According to the pilot in the tailwheel-equipped airplane, his right foot inadvertently applied pressure to the right and left rudder pedals during the takeoff roll at night. The airplane exited the left side of the runway and the left wing struck a tree. The airplane ground-looped to the left and the right wing tip struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing, the elevator and the rudder. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff roll due to his right foot inadvertently applying pressure to both rudder pedals.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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