Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control. Factors include gusty crosswind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the CESSNA 180 was taking off from a sandy beach with a 90 degree crosswind that he estimated to be 15 knots, gusting to 30. He stated that a gust caused the nose to weathercock, and by the time he reduced the power, the aircraft entered loose sand. The right main landing gear leg was pulled from the landing gear box, and the right wing was bent during the aircraft's impact with the surface..
Source record
Factual narrative
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