Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll. The soft terrain was a related factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During the takeoff roll from a private, gravel strip covered with patches of snow, the pilot said the airplane's left main wheel 'dropped' off the gravel portion of the runway resulting in the airplane veering to the left. He said he continued the takeoff roll with full power, full right rudder, and 10 degrees of flaps, but the nosewheel struck a soft spot on the runway and nosed over. He reported that the soft spot was a trench that had been excavated last august, and had not settled completely. He reported that there was no mechanical malfunction.
Source record
Factual narrative
-