Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the attempted takeoff in gusting crosswind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was taking off on runway 27 when the airplane veered off the right side of the runway. The left main gear collapsed, and the left wing was substantially damaged. The closest recorded weather observation facility, which was 11 miles away, reported wind from 010 degrees at 12 knots, gusting to 17 knots. Based on the wind condition, the pilot likely did not maintain control of the airplane due to a gusting crosswind.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot was taking off on runway 27 when the airplane veered off the right side of the runway. The left main gear collapsed and the left wing was substantially damaged. The closest recorded weather observation, 11 miles away, reported wind conditions from 010 degrees at 12 knots, gusting to 17 knots. The pilot reported there were no mechanical problems with the airplane at the time of the accident.