Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff with a gusting crosswind, which resulted in the collision with terrain. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's distraction when the door popped open.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during takeoff with a gusting crosswind, he was surprised by the door popping open as the right wing lifted up. He attempted to level the wings but was unsuccessful. The left wing tip touched the grass beside the runway, the airplane pivoted around and the right landing gear collapsed as it made contact with the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wing and to the fuselage.
The pilot reported no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14CA076 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 24, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Laural, Montana
- Nearest airport
- Laurel Muni (6S8)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aviat Aircraft Inc A-1C-200
- N-number
- N41WY
- 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.