Synopsis
A pilot departing from runway 27 experienced a strong gust of wind during the takeoff roll, leading to a loss of directional control and a subsequent runway excursion. The airplane sustained substantial damage to its firewall, and the pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that the wind was from 180 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 23 knots. During takeoff, when the airplane was about 5 to 10 feet above the runway, it encountered a strong gust. The airplane drifted left of the centerline and bounced on the runway. The pilot steered the airplane back to the centerline and attempted to abort the takeoff by applying full brakes and pulling the throttle back to idle.
Despite these efforts, the airplane went off the end of the 3,227-foot runway. The pilot was unable to stop the airplane on the wet grass, and it continued down an embankment, crossed a road, and entered a steep ditch.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the airplane's firewall. The pilot noted that the airplane did not experience a mechanical malfunction or failure during the incident.