Incident Summary
A pilot reported an incident during takeoff on runway 15. The wind was from the west at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots. The outside air temperature was 94 degrees Fahrenheit, and the density altitude was approximately 7,800 feet. The aircraft was damaged after hitting a boulder during the aborted takeoff.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, the aircraft lifted off about halfway down the runway in the strong crosswind. The pilot stated that the aircraft felt ready to climb out. However, due to the high temperature and altitude, the pilot believed a longer ground roll was necessary. Subsequently, the aircraft settled on the side of the runway. The pilot aborted the takeoff. Before the aircraft could stop, it struck a boulder and sustained damage.
Contributing Factors
The pilot cited the high density altitude and crosswind conditions as factors in the incident. The combination of high temperature and altitude resulted in reduced aircraft performance, requiring a longer ground roll than available. The strong crosswind further complicated the takeoff roll.