Takeoff and Abort
After fueling, the pilot started the engine normally and announced on Unicom his intention to taxi to runway 19 for an engine run-up. Before takeoff, he requested a wind check and received information that winds were from 170 to 220 degrees at 20 to 25 knots.
During the takeoff roll, the airplane began to drift toward the right edge of the runway. The airplane became airborne momentarily but settled back onto the runway as it continued to accelerate. With approximately a quarter of the runway remaining, the pilot decided to abort the takeoff.
Departure and Impact
During the pilot's attempts to stop the airplane, it overran the end of the runway and came to rest approximately 100 feet from the runway's end. The accident site was located near Grand Canyon National Park Airport, which was about 18 nautical miles to the north.
Aircraft Damage
The left wing's spar was bent, and the top skin and bottom skin of the wing were wrinkled. The aircraft had three passengers on board at the time of the incident.
Weather Information
The density altitude was 7,000 feet. At Grand Canyon National Park Airport, approximately 18 nautical miles north of the accident site, the reported conditions were wind from 210 to 240 degrees at 22 knots, gusting to 31 knots.