Incident Overview
At approximately 1600 PST, the pilot initiated takeoff on Runway 24. Prior to departure, at 1530 PST, the pilot obtained a weather briefing from the Lancaster Flight Service Station (FSS), which indicated wind variable from 230 to 250 degrees at 20 knots. While taxiing, the pilot reported wind variable from the same direction at 22 to 26 knots.
Takeoff Sequence
The pilot stated that during the takeoff roll, the aircraft reached rotation speed of 60 to 65 mph with the nosewheel off the runway. At that moment, the aircraft was struck by a shear gust from the left. The pilot noted the gust was from 180 degrees at 43 knots. As a result, the aircraft departed to the right side of the runway.
Outcome
Following the departure to the right, the nose gear failed, and the aircraft nosed over. A subsequent weather observation at 1604 PST recorded wind from 230 degrees at 27 knots, gusting to 37 knots.
Weather Conditions
- Pre-flight briefing (1530 PST): Wind variable 230 to 250 degrees at 20 knots.
- Pilot's taxi report: Wind variable from 230 to 250 degrees at 22 to 26 knots.
- Incident gust: From 180 degrees at 43 knots.
- Post-incident observation (1604 PST): Wind from 230 degrees at 27 knots, gusting to 37 knots.