Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control on the takeoff roll, resulting in a runway excursion.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that during the takeoff roll, the airplane began to drift to the right. He applied left rudder correction; however, the airplane continued to drift right and exited the runway. The airplane continued over a small hill and became airborne. The pilot applied full power to maintain flight, and within a short distance, realized that the airplane was in an unusual attitude. He lowered the airplane’s nose, and the airplane contacted the ground. The left main landing gear and spreader separated from the airframe and the airplane came to rest upright, perpendicular to the runway. The left wing and aileron were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.