Bellanca 7ECA N8654V accident near Ramona, California

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in variable wind conditions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that during the touch-and-go takeoff roll, he observed the windsock shift direction, the left wing of the airplane lifted very fast, and the airplane rolled to the right. The pilot further reported that when the left wing came back down, the airplane was orientated toward the ground. Subsequently the left wing of the airplane impacted the ground, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing.

According to the pilot there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located on the airport revealed that, about the time of the accident, conditions were wind variable at 3 knots. The airplane was landing on runway 27.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA197 for the full record.