Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff from a gravel driveway resulting in an impact with a tree.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was taking off from a private gravel driveway when the airplane’s right wheel went off the edge of the driveway into a drainage ditch. The airplane subsequently veered to the right, crossed a road, and impacted a small tree. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations.