Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s decision to takeoff from an unsuitable runway due to large puddles of water, which resulted in a nose over.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that flooding had recently occurred at his location and standing water remained in some places on the runway. He taxied up and down the runway and determined it was safe to depart. During the takeoff roll, the airplane experienced resistance when it contacted the first puddle of water, which forced the nose of the airplane down, resulting in a nose over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing lift strut, vertical stabilizer and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no pre impact mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.