Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control while taking off with a gusting wind.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
According to the pilot, during the takeoff ground roll the airplane encountered a sudden gust of wind and turned left. The pilot corrected with right rudder, but the airplane departed the runway and bounced several times before the right main landing gear collapsed and the right wing and fuselage were substantially damaged. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage and found no preimpact mechanical anomalies with the airplane. The pilot further reported that wind at the airport was shifting.
Source record
Factual narrative
According to the pilot, during the takeoff ground roll, he encountered a sudden gust of wind, turning the tailwheeled airplane to the left. The pilot corrected with right rudder, but the airplane departed the runway and bounced several times before the right main landing gear collapsed and the right wing and fuselage were substantially damaged. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage and did not note any pre-impact mechanical anomalies with the airplane. The pilot also reported that there were shifting winds at the airport, and that he might have attempted to take off in a tailwind because the wind tee was frozen in one position.