Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in crosswind conditions.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during takeoff, the airplane encountered a wind gust and veered to the left. He corrected with right rudder and left aileron, and the airplane veered to the right. Subsequently, the airplane exited the runway to the right, the left main landing gear sheared off, and the airplane impacted two trees.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, and left wing.
The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
A review of local weather at the airfield about the time of the accident showed the wind was 300° at 10 knots. The pilot was departing on runway 34.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA154 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 19, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Bally, Pennsylvania
- Nearest airport
- Butter Valley Golf Port (7N8)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 180
- N-number
- N123GT
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1966
- 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.