Incident Overview
The pilot-in-command (PIC) of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that he was operating from his private airstrip. Accompanying him was a friend who was also a pilot but had limited experience with tailwheel aircraft and had never flown the specific airplane from that airstrip. The PIC occupied the front seat, while his friend sat in the rear.
Flight Sequence
During the flight, the PIC completed two takeoffs and landings without incident. He then allowed his friend to conduct the third takeoff. During the takeoff roll, as the tailwheel lifted off the ground, the airplane began to yaw to the left. The PIC immediately took control and attempted to correct the yaw, but the airplane departed the left side of the runway and impacted trees, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and left wing.
Pilot Statements
The PIC reported no mechanical anomalies with the airplane. He described the wind as light and variable at the time of the accident. In his statement, the PIC noted that he should have taken control of the airplane sooner than he did.
Damage
Substantial damage was sustained to the fuselage and left wing. No further details about injuries or other damage were provided in the source.
Investigation
The source did not assign a probable cause to the accident. The PIC's statement about delayed intervention was noted but not cited as a causal factor.