Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll, resulting in a collision with terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the takeoff roll, the tail lifted, and the airplane yawed to the left. The airplane then yawed to the right, the tail came down, and "bounced on the runway several times." She reported that the airplane departed the runway to the right, impacted a chain link fence, and came to a stop on a dirt berm. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and the empennage. The pilot reported there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the takeoff roll, the tail lifted, and the airplane yawed to the left. The airplane then yawed to the right, the tail came down, and "bounced on the runway several times." She reported that the airplane departed the runway to the right, impacted a chain link fence, and came to a stop on a dirt berm. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and the empennage. The pilot reported there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.