Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion and a ground loop.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during takeoff he "lost rudder control" and the airplane exited the runway to the left. During the runway excursion, the airplane ground looped, the left main landing gear collapsed, and the left wing impacted terrain. The left wing sustained substantial damage. The pilot stated there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that during takeoff he "lost rudder control" and the airplane exited the runway to the left. During the runway excursion, the airplane ground looped, the left main landing gear collapsed, and the left wing impacted terrain. The left wing sustained substantial damage. The pilot stated there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.