Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll on a rough and rutted surface.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll on a dirt airstrip that was rutted and rough, the airplane veered to the left of centerline. The pilot tried to correct back to the right, however the left wing contacted brush on the side of the narrow airstrip. The airplane was subsequently pulled around and the left wing contacted the surface. Both wings and the fuselage were substantially damaged. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14CA015 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 12, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Rio Verde, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- Red Creek Airstrip (None)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aviat Aircraft Inc A-1C-180
- N-number
- N40WY
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2011
- 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.