Pilot Debrief

Piper PA-12 near Wild Rose, WI — 2010-08-02

Final reportCEN10CA451
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Date
2010-08-02
Location
Wild Rose, WI, USA
Airport
W23
Aircraft
Piper PA-12
Registration
N775PA
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of directional control during the takeoff roll.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that tailwheel-equipped airplane was accelerating on the takeoff roll when the tail became airborne before rotation speed, which was immediately followed by a left yaw/swerve. He attempted to regain directional control with right rudder and brake inputs, but the airplane continued in the left swerve. He elected to abort the takeoff by reducing engine power to idle while continuing to apply right rudder and brake inputs. He used aggressive braking as the airplane approached the left edge of the runway, but the airplane continued off the runway and struck several trees. He noted that the turf-runway was dew covered and that the wind was at approximately 3 knots, with no gusts. The leading edge of both wings, vertical stabilizer, and rudder were substantially damaged during the accident. A postaccident inspection of the airplane did not reveal any mechanical malfunction of the tailwheel or braking systems.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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