The pilot reported that, during takeoff at the airport in Hood River, Oregon, the experimental, amateur-built airplane encountered a right crosswind.
He applied right aileron and right rudder, but the L-Bird CCX-2000 rolled to the left. The left wing hit the ground, and the plane departed the left side of the runway.
The left wing hit a runway light, and the airplane cartwheeled before coming to rest upright.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the engine mounts.
The METAR at the airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 290° at 9 knots, gusting to 22 knots. The wind direction was reported as variable between 230° and 320°. The pilot attempted to takeoff from Runway 25.
In the recommendation section of the National Transportation Safety Board Pilot Aircraft Accident Report, the pilot reported the accident could have been prevented by choosing to cancel the flight due to high-wind conditions.
Probable cause: The pilot’s decision to take off in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a loss of directional control.
NTSB Identification: GAA18CA236
This April 2018 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.
