Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during takeoff in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in collision with an object.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during takeoff with a right crosswind, he encountered a strong gust of wind that pushed the airplane into a 3-foot-tall wall located on the left side of the runway. The airplane’s left main landing gear subsequently struck the wall, which liberated the entire left main landing gear assembly from the airplane. The pilot then elected to continue to his home airport where he made a successful emergency landing. During the emergency landing, the left wing struck the surface of the runway resulting in substantial damage to the main wing spar. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC24LA030 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 12, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Willcox, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- Inde Motorsports Ranch Airport (93AZ)
- Highest injury
- None
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-32-300
- N-number
- N4011R
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1967
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Positioning
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.