Primary finding
Probable cause
The aircrafts takeoff performance exceeded and pilot's failure to maintain directional control. A factor was the wind
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During the takeoff ground run on runway 30 the pilot lost control of the airplane and it ran off the left side of the runway and struck a taxiway sign. Wind was 350 degrees at 20 knots. The pilot reported that he lost rudder authority
Source record
Factual narrative
On April 8, 1993, at approximately 1515 mountain daylight time (MDT) a Vaughan Mustang II, N20JV, was substantially damaged during takeoff. The Air Transport Rated pilot, who was the owner and operator, was not injured. Weather for the local area flight was visual meteorological conditions. During an interview with the pilot, conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector, he stated that during the takeoff ground run on runway 30 he lost control and ran off the left side of the runway. Following the runway departure the airplane struck a taxiway sign. He further reported that there was no mechanical problems with the airplane and that he just ran out of rudder. Winds were reported to be 350 degrees at 20 knots. -