Amateur-built SMITH SUPER CUB N9930D accident near Chisana, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.

NTSB analysis

The pilot was departing from a remote strip in his tailwheel-equipped airplane. He reported that, during the takeoff roll, the airplane encountered a strong crosswind from the left. The airplane veered to the right, and the pilot attempted to correct with opposite rudder and aileron; however, the airplane departed the right side of the runway and impacted a rut in the river, which collapsed the left main landing gear; the left wing subsequently struck the ground, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing.

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 ANC25LA104 for the full record.