Pilot Debrief

DEHAVILLAND BEAVER DHC 2 near Akhiok, AK — 2013-09-14

Final reportANC13CA098
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Date
2013-09-14
Location
Akhiok, AK, USA
Aircraft
DEHAVILLAND BEAVER DHC 2
Registration
N1544
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in a gusty tailwind.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of a float-equipped airplane reported that he was attempting to takeoff from a river, in the same direction as the 3 to 5-knot current, with a 5-knot tailwind. During the takeoff run, as the airplane neared a bend in the river, it encountered a 15 to 20-knot quartering tailwind gust. He said that the airplane lost rudder authority due to the wind gust, and he was unable to steer around the river bend. The airplane subsequently struck the riverbank and came to rest upright. During the impact, the left wing sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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