Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s loss of directional control during the takeoff roll, which resulted in a runway excursion.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll, he attempted to close a window vent and the airplane veered off the left side of the runway. He aborted the takeoff and taxied back for takeoff; he examined the airplane before takeoff and did not see any damage. After landing, he secured the airplane in the club hangar. During a flying club meeting 4 days later, the pilot observed damage to the right wing; subsequent examination revealed substantial damage to the wing spar. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane before the runway excursion.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll he attempted to close a window vent and veered off the left side of the runway. He aborted the takeoff and taxied back for takeoff; he examined the airplane prior to takeoff and did not see any damage. After landing he secured the airplane in the club hangar. On August 25th during a flying club meeting the pilot observed damage to the lower section of the right wing and subsequent examination revealed substantial damage to the wing spar. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane prior to the runway excursion.