McGrath, AK, USA
N6727A
Piper PA18
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during takeoff from a gravel, dirt airstrip, a "rogue crosswind gust of wind" pushed the airplane to the right. The airplane struck a "bump," became airborne, continued drifting right, and landed hard in a creek. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that the prevailing wind was light and variable and not gusting. The airplane was departing to the south.
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during takeoff on a gravel, dirt airstrip, a "rogue crosswind gust of wind" pushed the airplane to the right. The airplane struck a "bump", became airborne, continued drifting right, and landed hard in a creek. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that the prevailing wind was light and variable and not gusting. The airplane was departing to the south.
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in a crosswind.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
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