Amateur-built SUPER CUB REPLICA N1698K accident near Saratoga Springs, Utah

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll with crosswind conditions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot in the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that he had performed several takeoffs and landings from the shoreline of a lake. He reported that, during the takeoff roll about 25 knots, a right crosswind gust pushed the airplane left and into the water. The left main landing gear entered the water, and the airplane spun 90° to the left, and the airplane nosed over.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and rudder.

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

The pilot reported that, during takeoff, the wind was from 180° at 20 knots, gusting to 45 knots. The METAR for an airport located 4 nautical miles from the accident site reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 210° at 11 knots with no gusts. The pilot reported that he took off to the southeast.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA576 for the full record.