Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain obstacle clearance during takeoff, which resulted in a collision with a cactus and impact with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during takeoff from an off-airport location, the airplane collided with a Saguaro cactus. The airplane spun to the left and impacted the ground, before coming to rest in a ravine. The left-wing spar was substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA129 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 11, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Arlington, Arizona
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cubcrafters Inc CC11-160
- N-number
- N38LW
- 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.