What happened
During the takeoff phase, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of directional control. The pilot reported that a gust of wind striking from the left side forced the tail of the airplane to the right. In an attempt to maintain the centerline, the pilot applied full right rudder and partial braking.
As the pilot attempted to get the aircraft airborne to avoid an imminent ground loop, another gust of wind further shifted the tail to the right. Despite the continued use of full right rudder and considerable right braking, the right wingtip impacted the runway. The aircraft then moved toward the left side of the runway, where the propeller struck the surface. The sequence concluded with the propeller hitting the ground at the edge of the runway, causing the airplane to nose over.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
- The event was precipitated by wind gusts that caused a loss of directional control.