Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with sand hummocks.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll, a "gust came up," and the airplane exited the runway to the right onto sand hummocks, and the landing gear collapsed. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA20CA036 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 18, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Marble Canyon, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- Marble Canyon (L41)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built TORNADO II
- N-number
- N49PD
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2001
- 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.