This July 2008 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Evektor-Aerotechnik SportStar. Injuries: None. Location: Arlington, Wash. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The winds at the time of the accident were from 280° at 11 knots. The student pilot attempted to takeoff from runway 34. During the acceleration a gust of wind pushed the airplane to the left and the student pilot could not regain directional control. The airplane went off the runway and the right main landing gear collapsed.
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff roll in gusty conditions.
For more information: NTSB.gov
