Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff, in gusty and variable wind conditions, resulting in a collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported he was departing from the ramp area at the airport due to wind direction. Shortly after becoming airborne in the tailwheel-equipped airplane, a gust of wind pushed the right wing down and the aircraft momentarily flew inverted, turned 90-degrees, and then impacted terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left and right wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC14CA082 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 16, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Prospect Creek, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Prospect Creek (PPC)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Helio H 295
- N-number
- N50718
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1967
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.