Probable cause
the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff. Contributing to the accident were wind gusts and rough terrain.
NTSB analysis
During the takeoff roll after the tailwheel lifted off the runway, the airplane encountered a "strong left crosswind." The pilot attempted to correct with right rudder; however, the airplane departed the runway surface. Subsequently, the airplane contacted rough/uneven terrain, flipped over and came to rest inverted. The pilot and witnesses reported the winds at the time of calm with intermittent gusts.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for DEN08CA142 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 13, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Crawford, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Crawford (99V)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aerotek Pitts Special S-1S
- N-number
- N362JW
- 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.