Pilot Debrief

WAG-AERO Sportsman 2+2 near Wasilla, AK — 2020-03-27

Final reportANC20CA039
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Date
2020-03-27
Location
Wasilla, AK, USA
Airport
9AK6
Aircraft
WAG-AERO Sportsman 2+2
Registration
N5045X
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff from an icy ski strip in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in the left wing impacting a tree.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, during takeoff from an icy ski strip, there was a "light variable quartering tailwind from the south west." During the takeoff run, the ski- and tailwheel-equipped airplane veered left, and the pilot attempted to correct with opposite rudder. As the airplane became airborne, the left wing struck a tree, and the airplane "swung around" before coming to rest upright. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and the empennage.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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