Event Details
The pilot was conducting a takeoff to the east on a 13,793-foot-long by 150-foot-wide concrete runway. The reported wind at the time was from 060 degrees at 9 knots. According to the pilot, just before liftoff, the airplane made a sudden hard turn to the left. Despite applying right rudder and right brake, the airplane drifted off the left side of the runway.
Damage
The right wing of the airplane struck a runway marker sign located 130 feet to the left of the runway centerline. The impact caused substantial damage to the right wing, aileron, flap, and stabilator. The right wing's fuel tank ruptured, resulting in a substantial fuel spill, but no post-impact fire occurred.
Occupants and Injuries
The pilot and his three passengers were not injured and were able to exit the airplane unassisted.
Investigation
The pilot reported that there was no mechanical malfunction or failure with the airplane. A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector who examined the airplane found no anomalies with the brake system, nose wheel steering, or flight controls.