Accident Overview
A Luscombe 8A airplane was substantially damaged when it departed the runway and overturned during a takeoff attempt at an airport. The pilot/owner reported that he and a pilot-rated passenger intended to practice takeoffs and landings to gain proficiency on wheels after a long ski season. The pilot-rated passenger was a flight instructor, but the pilot was not receiving instruction at the time. Additionally, the passenger had no flight experience in the make and model of the airplane.
Sequence of Events
The pilot first completed a successful takeoff and landing on runway 17. He then allowed the pilot-rated passenger to attempt the same maneuver. During the takeoff roll on runway 17, the airplane began to veer left, then right, left, and right again. The pilot attempted to correct the upset, but the airplane traveled off the right side of the runway and onto snow-covered grass, where it came to rest inverted.
Examination Findings
An FAA inspector examined the airplane and found substantial damage to the underside fuselage. The examination revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions, and neither pilot reported any such issues. The pilot stated that at the time of the accident, the wind was from 150 degrees at 5 knots.
Conclusion
The accident resulted from a loss of directional control during takeoff, leading to a runway excursion and nose-over. No probable cause has been formally stated in the available information.