Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported observing a dark layer of cloud just after takeoff and decided to avoid and return to the departure airport. When the airplane main landing gear contacted the ground, the pilot stated that the airplane veered to the left, exited the runway and nosed over before coming to rest. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.