Amateur-built Highlander N91ZS accident near Clarksdale, Mississippi

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain control during takeoff in gusting crosswind conditions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that there was a large weather system in the area which resulted in gusting wind conditions. During takeoff roll in the tailwheel airplane, the tail lifted off the runway and the airplane accelerated. Before the airplane reached takeoff speed, the airplane yawed 30° left due to a gust of wind. The pilot stated that he remained in control of the airplane and continued the takeoff as he climbed to 6 to 8 ft above the ground. The wind gust ceased, and the airplane descended into a cotton field where it sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage and right wing. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

At the time of the accident the airplane was taking off on runway 18 with winds 090o at 15 kts with gusts to 20 kts.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN24LA352 for the full record.