Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s loss of directional control during takeoff roll due the passenger’s interference with the rudder pedals, which resulted in a runway excursion.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll, the airplane drifted left so he applied right rudder, but the rudder pedals were “jammed” by the passenger in the left seat. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control. The airplane departed the left side of the runway and continued through a culvert, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.