Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-18-150 near Taft, CA — 2010-04-11

Final reportWPR10CA203
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Date
2010-04-11
Location
Taft, CA, USA
Airport
L17
Aircraft
PIPER PA-18-150
Registration
N2887P
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of control during takeoff upon encountering a strong wind gust.

NTSB narrative

During takeoff from runway 07, as the pilot was becoming airborne, he encountered a strong southeasterly gust of wind. The pilot stated that despite his efforts at maintaining control, the gust was so strong that the right wing lifted up, and the airplane rolled over. At the time, the engine was already developing full power and the pilot's application of full flight control corrective actions was inadequate to counter the gust of wind during this critical phase of flight. The airplane, which became uncontrollable, came to rest upside down with broken wings and a crushed vertical stabilizer. The airport manager witnessed the mishap and corroborated the pilot's statements regarding the wind. The manager estimated the wind's speed was between 25 and 35 mph.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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