Narrative
The accident sequence began when the Cessna 172M initiated its takeoff ground run on runway 8. During the roll, the aircraft veered left. The pilot reported encountering a left 90-degree crosswind that gusted up to 20 knots. Despite the pilot's inputs, the aircraft continued to veer uncontrollably into the wind. The pilot then decided to abort the takeoff. Upon aborting, the aircraft turned sideways, nosed down, and came to rest on its right wing and nose cowling.
The pilot stated that the aircraft had been modified with a tailwheel conversion. He also noted that no mechanical failures or malfunctions occurred prior to the accident.
Wind and Performance Data
The reported winds at the time of the accident were from 350 degrees at 12 knots, gusting to 24 knots. The aircraft's owner's manual indicates that the maximum demonstrated crosswind velocity for the Cessna 172M is 15 knots. The gust condition exceeded this limit.
Aircraft Details
The accident aircraft was a Cessna 172M, equipped with a tailwheel conversion modification. No pre-existing mechanical issues were reported.