American Champion Aircraft 8GCBC N326JH accident near Plainview, Texas

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during gusty wind conditions. Contributing to the outcome was the pilot's exceedance of the maximum crosswind component during takeoff.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that during the takeoff roll in gusty wind conditions, the airplane encountered a strong wind gust. He further reported that shortly after takeoff, the right wing dropped, followed by the left wing; and the left wing impacted the ground.

The airplane sustained 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, at the time of the accident, conditions were wind 260 degrees at 29 knots, wind gust 40 knots. The airplane was departing on runway 22.

The pilot attempted to takeoff with about an 18 knot right crosswind component.

According to the airplane manufacture the maximum demonstrated crosswind component for takeoff and landing is 15 knots.

The FAA Airplane Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-3A (2004) discusses operations in crosswind conditions and states in part:

Takeoffs and landings in certain crosswind conditions are inadvisable or even dangerous. If the crosswind is great enough to warrant an extreme drift correction, a hazardous landing condition may result. Therefore, the takeoff and landing capabilities with respect to the reported surface wind conditions and the available landing directions must be considered.

It is imperative that pilots determine the maximum crosswind component of each airplane they fly, and avoid operations in wind conditions that exceed the capability of the airplane.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA227 for the full record.