Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.
NTSB analysis
During the takeoff roll on runway 35, the pilot stated he encountered a gust of wind that moved the tail of the tailwheel equipped airplane to the right. The airplane veered left and the pilot attempted to correct with right rudder but stated he did not apply enough. The right main landing gear collapsed during the event and the airplane departed the left side of the runway into the grass. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing. Winds reported on the field near the time of the accident were 10 knots from 280 degrees.
The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA056 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 30, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Tunica, Mississippi
- Nearest airport
- Tunica Muni (UTA)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built RV-6
- N-number
- N91WD
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1991
- 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.