Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in gusting crosswind conditions, which resulted in a runway excursion and the left main landing gear collapsing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during takeoff, the airplane encountered a wind gust and veered left. The airplane exited the runway onto adjacent grass, and the left main landing gear collapsed. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The airport's automated weather observation station reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 320° at 8 knots, gusting to 17 knots and variable from 290° to 350°. The airplane was departing from runway 3.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during takeoff, the airplane encountered a gust of wind and veered left. The airplane exited the runway onto the adjacent grass and the left main landing gear collapsed. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The airport's automated weather observation station reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 320° at 8 knots, gusting to 17 knots and variable from 290° to 350°. The airplane was departing from runway 3.