Runway excursion involving a North American AT-6D, VH-TOA, Toowoomba (ALA), Queensland, on 23 January 1996

The pilot said he had over corrected when the aircraft was struck by a gusting crosswind during the take-off roll. This action caused the left wing to contact the runway, slewing the aircraft sideways. The aircraft then departed the runway sliding sideways before coming to rest, upright, within the cleared area of the flight path.

Both the pilot and the passenger were able to exit the aircraft safely.

The take-off was the first solo flight for the pilot after receiving endorsement on the type.

The aircraft received significant damage to the landing gear, propeller and wings.