Amateur-built CCK-1865 N53KK accident near Quartzite, Arizona

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during takeoff while operating in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a collision with a cactus and the subsequent impact with terrain.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he planned to depart from his 700-foot gravel private-airstrip for a short scenic-flight. After preforming a preflight inspection, the pilot reviewed the weather conditions. The wind direction was reported as variable with velocities under 10 knots. After an uneventful takeoff roll to the south, the airplane became airborne and immediately started to drift east. The airplane remained in ground effect and would not continue to climb, which the pilot thought was consistent with windshear in the area. Despite his efforts, the pilot was unable to avoid a collision with a Saguaro cactus. The airplane spun and descended to the ground, colliding with a ditch. Both wings and the fuselage were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The closest METAR weather reporting facility, located 15 nautical miles southwest of the accident site, recorded that around the time of the accident the wind was from 300° at 6 knots and gusting to 18 knots.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA113 for the full record.