Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll which resulted in an aborted takeoff and collision with terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that, during the takeoff roll he encountered a right crosswind, and the airplane began to deviate to the left of the runway centerline. He attempted to correct the movement with application of right rudder, but the pilot was unsuccessful in correcting his course. To avoid a possible runway excursion, the pilot decided to fly in ground effect. He rotated and the airplane lifted off the runway; however, the left wing immediately dropped, and the airplane struck the ground. The pilot aborted the takeoff attempt, and the airplane landed in grass. The left wing was substantially damaged. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.