Colorado Aviation Accidents & Incidents

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2310 Total Accidents 425 Fatal 816 Fatalities 1982-2026
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Aspen, Colorado

August 9, 2009 · NTSB CEN09CA544 · PIPER PA-18 (N350CC)
Minor/None
Note: This analysis may be based on NTSB preliminary reports, which represent an initial, incomplete investigation. Facts can change as the investigation progresses, and preliminary findings should not be assumed to be accurate or final. For older events, a final NTSB report may have been issued β€” always consult the NTSB Aviation Query for the authoritative record.

NTSB Narrative

Prior to takeoff, the pilot was warned by tower controllers to use caution for wake turbulence from a preceding large business jet . During takeoff roll, prior to the tailwheel becoming airborne, the airplane ground-looped to the left and came to rest beside the runway. The pilot stated that the winds were calm and that he did not wait a sufficient amount of time behind the preceding airplane before starting his takeoff. Examination of the airplane revealed a bent right wing spar, bent right horizontal stabilizer and elevator. The pilot's failure to maintain adequate separation behind a preceding large business jet, which resulted in an encounter with wake turbulence.

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NTSB Findings

  • Personnel issues-Action/decision-Info processing/decision-Identification/recognition-Pilot - C
  • Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Directional control-Attain/maintain not possible

Details

NTSB ReportCEN09CA544
AircraftPIPER PA-18
RegistrationN350CC
DamageSUBS
FAR Part091
Location39.2231, -106.8689
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