Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in gusty crosswind conditions.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that during the takeoff roll in a tailwheel equipped airplane, after the tailwheel lifted off the runway, a gust of wind caused the airplane to weathervane to the right. Despite the pilot’s application of full left rudder, he could not maintain directional control. The airplane exited the right side of the runway, struck a ditch and the left main landing gear collapsed which resulted in the left wing impacting the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and left wing.
The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. At the time of the accident, the pilot was departing runway 20 with wind 260° at 9 knots, gusting to 17 knots.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA259 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 7, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Monte Vista, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Monte Vista Municipal (MVI)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Vans RV8
- N-number
- N425GB
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2019
- 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.