Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff roll in gusty conditions.
NTSB analysis
The student pilot reported that during the takeoff roll on runway 34, the airplane was buffeted by a gust of wind and it yawed to the left. He applied full opposite rudder control; however, the airplane veered off the runway. After the airplane exited the runway, the right main landing gear leg collapsed and the airplane came to rest adjacent to the runway. The student pilot stated that the winds at the time of the accident were from 280 degrees at 11 knots. No mechanical failures or malfunctions were reported.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for SEA08LA164 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 8, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Arlington, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Arlington (KAWO)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
SportStar
- N-number
- N918LA
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.