BEECH A36 near Telluride, CO — 2013-10-13

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to take off in gusting tailwinds resulting in exceeding the performance capabilities of the airplane and subsequent loss of control.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated the reported winds near his departure time were 140 degrees at 24 knots, and he elected to depart from runway 27. During climb out, shortly after he rotated, the airplane weathervaned hard to the left and the stall warning horn sounded. The pilot felt a strong gust of wind as he attempted to clear rising terrain, and thought he encountered a strong down draft or rotor, followed by the airplane impacting terrain. Wind recorded five minutes before the accident was from 130 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 29 knots.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control in flight · Takeoff
• Loss of Control on Takeoff/Initial Climb
• Decision Making / Judgment

Evidence available

• 3 docket documents

Docket documents3

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Crosswind Componant Chartother
• Weather Reportsreport

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