Accident Overview
On July 15, 2012, at approximately 1330 eastern daylight time, a Czech Aircraft Works SPOL SRO SportCruiser light-sport airplane, registration N516JG, was substantially damaged during an aborted takeoff at a private airstrip near Waynesville, Ohio. The sport pilot and a passenger were not injured. The aircraft was registered to and operated by Three Wings, LLC, under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 without a flight plan. The flight was originating at the time of the accident for a local area flight under day visual meteorological conditions.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that the accident occurred during departure to the west from the private airstrip, which has an east/west grass runway measuring 2,000 feet long and 150 feet wide. About halfway down the runway during the takeoff roll, he noticed an abrupt change in wind direction, shifting from a left crosswind to a tailwind. Deciding to abort the takeoff because he was unsure whether the airplane would clear trees located beyond the departure end, the pilot attempted to steer into an adjacent field. However, the airplane impacted two fence posts concealed in shrubbery before coming to rest. The pilot stated there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have prevented normal operation.
Weather Conditions
The closest weather observing station, Dayton-Wright Brothers Airport (KMGY), located about 6.3 miles west-northwest of the airstrip, reported at 1330: wind from 220 degrees at 8 knots, visibility 10 miles, few clouds at 2,800 feet above ground level, temperature 28°C, dew point 21°C, and altimeter setting 30.13 inches of mercury. The report noted lightning observed in the distant southeast. Weather radar data showed several convective cells surrounding the accident site at the time. One-minute wind data between 1325 and 1335 indicated wind direction varying from 199 to 266 degrees and speed between 5 and 10 knots.
Aircraft Information
The SportCruiser is a light-sport airplane designed by Czech Aircraft Works SPOL SRO. On this flight, it carried two occupants and was operated under Part 91 for personal use.
Damage
The fuselage, firewall, and both wings sustained substantial damage during the accident sequence.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not determine a probable cause for the accident.