Cessna U206 N4804F accident near Diamond Point, New York

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll with gusting wind conditions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll, the airplane encountered a wind gust and veered left off the runway centerline. He added that the airplane became airborne but that he did not have "enough time" to avoid a parked helicopter. Subsequently, the left wing impacted the helicopter. He then reduced the engine power, and the airplane landed without further incident.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The automated weather observation system about 5 nautical miles from the accident site reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 230° at 12 knots, gusting to 17 knots. The pilot was departing on runway 22.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA307 for the full record.