Pilot Debrief

BRANDT STIRLING D WAIEX-B near Stratford, CT — 2024-09-10

Final reportERA24LA378
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Date
2024-09-10
Location
Stratford, CT, USA
Airport
BDR
Aircraft
BRANDT STIRLING D WAIEX-B
Registration
N371WB
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain direction control of the airplane during a takeoff in crosswind conditions.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he had received an automated weather briefing prior to taxiing that detailed that a quartering right headwind gusting up to 16 knots would prevail for the takeoff. As he turned onto the runway and began to apply full power for takeoff, there was a “strong crosswind from the right,” and the airplane turned into the wind. The pilot applied full left rudder input but could not keep the airplane aligned with the runway centerline. Shortly after, he reduced the engine power to idle and applied full brakes, but the wind continued to push the airplane to the right. He reported that the tailwheel was also skidding down the pavement surface even with the elevator “full back.” The airplane contacted a taxiway sign on the right edge of the runway, substantially damaging the right wing. The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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