Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane after encountering a gust of wind while taking off with a crosswind.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he applied right aileron to correct for a 9-knot crosswind during takeoff. The airplane encountered a gust of wind just after liftoff about 5 feet above the runway. The pilot stated that he "over-reacted" in applying right aileron and lowering the nose of the aircraft. The airplane drifted off the left side of the runway, where it descended into 30- to 36-inch-tall grass. The right wing tip contacted the ground followed by the rest of the airplane, causing substantial damage to the right wing.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported he applied right aileron to correct for a 9 knot crosswind during takeoff. The airplane encountered a gust of wind just after liftoff about 5 feet above the runway. The pilot stated he "over-reacted" in applying right aileron and lowering the nose of the aircraft. The airplane drifted off the left side of the runway where it descended into 30 to 36 inch tall grass. The right wingtip contacted the ground followed by the rest of the airplane. Substantial damage resulted to the right wing.