Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in a crosswind.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during takeoff from a gravel, dirt airstrip, a "rogue crosswind gust of wind" pushed the airplane to the right. The airplane struck a "bump," became airborne, continued drifting right, and landed hard in a creek.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot reported that the prevailing wind was light and variable and not gusting. The airplane was departing to the south.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA504 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 20, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Mcgrath, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA18
- N-number
- N6727A
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1981
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Business
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.