Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control in a gusting quartering tailwind that resulted in a loss of control and impact with trees.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he attempted a takeoff with an estimated 10-12 knot left quartering tailwind. During the takeoff ground roll, the airplane veered left, departed the side of the runway, and collided with trees. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left and right wings. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. A review of aviation weather data found the potential for the wind to gust over 20 knots at the time of the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN22LA206 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 19, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Beach City, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Rwj Airpark (54T)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-28R-180
- N-number
- N7451J
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1968
- 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.