Primary finding
Probable cause
the pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during takeoff. A factor was the crosswind condition.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that while taking off from a road a 'strong crosswind gust' was encountered. The right wing was lifted by the wind resulting in the left wing and left gear contacting the ground. The left wing caught in the dirt and the airplane flipped over.
Source record
Factual narrative
On March 26, 1996, at 1400 central standard time, a Ayres Thrush S2-R, N3024V, operated by Austin Ag Aviation, collided with the terrain on takeoff from a road near Wyatt, Missouri. The 14 CFR Part 137 aerial application flight was operating in visual meteorological conditions without a flight plan. The airplane was substantially damaged and the pilot was not injured. The local flight was originating at the time of the accident. The pilot stated that on takeoff at an altitude of approximately 1 foot, a "strong crosswind gust" was encountered. The gust lifted the right wing resulting in the left wing and left main gear contacting the ground. The left wing caught in the dirt and the airplane flipped over. The pilot reported that the local winds were from 315 degrees at 10 knots. -