Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff roll.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that during the takeoff roll the airplane departed the left side of the runway and the tail struck an object, substantially damaging the left-side horizontal stabilizer. The pilot taxied the airplane back to the terminal and secured it. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane at the time of the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated in the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report that during the takeoff roll the airplane had reached about 60 miles per hour (mph) when it departed the left side of the runway and the tail struck an object, substantially damaging the left side horizontal stabilizer. The pilot proceeded to taxi the airplane back to the terminal and tie it down. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane at the time of the accident.