Accident Overview
A pilot reported that during takeoff, immediately after lift-off, the prevailing wind shifted from a headwind to a tailwind. The pilot lost the ability to maintain aircraft heading and runway centerline. The airplane drifted toward the runway edge and settled onto the dirt beside the runway.
Sequence of Events
During the roll-out on the dirt, the airplane struck a taxiway location or runway holding position sign. The impact occurred midway between the passenger compartment and the empennage. As a result, the empennage was bent approximately 70 degrees to the right.
Weather Conditions
Weather reported at the time of the accident included: wind variable at 5 knots, visibility 10 miles, clear skies, temperature 18°C, dew point -4°C, and altimeter setting 30.00 inches of mercury.
Aircraft Examination
The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to the accident. An examination of the airplane after the accident revealed no mechanical anomalies.