Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions, which resulted in a loss of directional control and subsequent encounter with a ditch. The crosswind was a related factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot initiated a takeoff on runway 21 with winds from 100 degrees at 10 knots. During the takeoff roll, he lost directional control of the tailwheel equipped airplane. Subsequently, it came to rest in a drainage canal adjacent to the runway.
Source record
Factual narrative
On January 22, 1996, at 1215 central standard time, a Cessna A185F, N6034N, was substantially damaged following a loss of control during takeoff near Belle Chase, Louisiana. The airline transport rated pilot and the 2 passengers were not injured. The airplane was being operated by Southern Seaplane Inc., of Belle Chase, Louisiana, as a Title 14 CFR Part 135 flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the air taxi flight to Lafayette, Louisiana. A company VFR flight plan was filed, and a weather briefing received for the flight. According to the pilot and the operator, the airplane was departing from the operator's airstrip (65LA) on runway 20 with winds from 100 degrees at 10 knots. In the enclosed NTSB Pilot/Operator Report, the operator stated that "directional control was lost during the takeoff roll and the airplane came to rest in a drainage canal adjacent to the runway." -