Incident Overview
A pilot reported that while conducting a takeoff in a tailwheel-equipped airplane from a dry lake bed under gusty crosswind conditions, the left wing lifted. Unbeknownst to the pilot, the right wing subsequently made contact with the ground. During the initial climb, the airplane began turning to the right despite the pilot applying full left rudder and aileron inputs. The airplane continued its turn downwind at an altitude of approximately 4 to 6 feet above the ground.
Sequence of Events
While in the downwind turn, the airplane encountered a tailwind, which the pilot described as pushing the airplane downward. The airplane descended onto a puddle, where it hydroplaned and nosed over. The aircraft came to rest after the nose-over event.
Damage Assessment
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and aileron. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Pilot Report
The pilot provided the account of the incident, noting that the gusty crosswind conditions contributed to the wing lift and subsequent ground contact. The pilot's control inputs were unable to counteract the right turn during the initial climb, leading to the downwind turn and loss of altitude.