Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to adequately compensate for a wind gust during the departure roll, which resulted in a loss of directional control and a runway excursion.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that during takeoff, the airplane encountered a large gust of wind. The airplane was pushed to the left of the runway’s center and continued off the edge of the runway. The left wing collided with trees, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot stated that there were no pre impact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.