Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s encounter with a tailwind during takeoff roll, which resulted in an aborted takeoff, collision with a ditch and subsequent nose over.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during takeoff roll to the south from a grass runway, the airplane encountered a tailwind/downdraft, which resulted in the airplane using more runway. The pilot aborted the takeoff and let the airplane roll to a stop in an adjacent field, however, the airplane struck a ditch and subsequently nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing, right horizontal, and right elevator. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.