Event Details
During the preflight inspection of a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the pilot completed a run-up, verified flight controls, checked engine instruments, and set flight instruments. The pilot then slowly applied full power and began the takeoff roll, maintaining the runway center line. Just after the tail lifted off the ground, an unexpected wind gust from the right caused the airplane to veer left of the centerline.
Pilot Actions
In response, the pilot applied right rudder to correct the deviation. However, another gust of wind raised the right wing, and the airplane veered further left. The pilot reduced the throttle to idle in an attempt to slow down and abort the takeoff. As the airplane began to stabilize, the pilot decided to continue the takeoff and reapplied full throttle. The airplane continued to veer left, prompting the pilot to immediately return the throttle to idle as the airplane departed the left side of the runway.
Outcome
While rolling on the dirt adjacent to the runway surface, the tailwheel encountered a hole and dug into the dirt, and the right main wheel also dug in. The pilot noted that this caused the airplane to stop rolling forward. Subsequently, the airplane slid sideways, causing the right wing to contact the ground, resulting in structural damage to the wing. The airplane came to a stop, and the pilot exited uninjured. After the accident, the pilot stated that if the tailwheel had not dug into the hole, the runway departure could have been managed without damage to the airplane.