Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensations for wind conditions. The gusty crosswind was a factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During takeoff on runway 29 the pilot encountered a wind shift from a left quartering headwind to a left quartering tailwind, along with gusting conditions. The tailwheel equipped aircraft drifted off the right side of the runway, rolling into sagebrush, and ultimately nosing over.
Source record
Factual narrative
On March 19, 1994, approximately 1155 hours mountain standard time (MST), a Christen Industries, Inc., A-1, N2925Z, registered to and being flown by Charles R. Arment, a certificated commercial pilot, was substantially damaged during a loss of control on takeoff at the Dutch John Airport, Dutch John, Utah. The pilot and passenger were uninjured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a VFR flight plan had been filed. The flight, which was to be a local aerial observation, was to have been operated in accordance with the requirements set forth in 14CFR91. The pilot reported to an FAA inspector that he initiated the takeoff roll on runway 29 with a left quartering headwind of 10- 12 knots. Immediately after the tailwheel left the runway the wind became gusty and shifted to a left quartering tailwind. The aircraft drifted off the right side of the runway and nosed over as it rolled into sagebrush. -