Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane during takeoff in gusty wind conditions.
NTSB analysis
The airplane encountered a wind gust on takeoff roll, which lifted the right wing and caused the airplane to roll left. The airplane then lifted off the ground about 2-3 feet, and the pilot aborted the takeoff. The airplane touched down on the left landing gear as it was drifting to the left, and the gear collapsed. Then, the right landing gear collapsed, and the left wing struck a runway light as the airplane exited the side of the runway. The pilot said that the firewall, left wing spar, and an engine mount were damaged. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies with the airframe or engine. He also stated that he should have been more aware of the possibility of sudden wind gusts and wind shear during takeoff.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12CA278 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 3, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Redwood Falls, Minnesota
- Nearest airport
- Redwood Falls Municipal (RWF)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built RV-4
- N-number
- N102GW
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.