Incident Overview
On an unspecified date, an experimental, amateur-built bi-plane equipped with tailwheel landing gear experienced a loss of control during takeoff from a turf and gravel runway. The pilot, who spoke with an FAA Aviation Safety Inspector at the accident site, reported that during the takeoff roll, the aircraft drifted to the left side of the runway.
Pilot's Account
According to the pilot, after a normal engine run-up with all indications within parameters, he applied light power and began the takeoff roll from a concrete pad at the approach end of the runway. Shortly thereafter, the bi-plane began to drift left. The pilot stated he did not feel he had sufficient rudder authority to correct the drift, so he added more power with the intention of increasing airflow over the rudder. However, the torque from the added power exacerbated the loss of control, causing the aircraft to drift further left.
The bi-plane exited the runway, struck a post supporting a satellite dish, and then struck a tree. The pilot later told the inspector that, in hindsight, aborting the takeoff would have been a better decision.
Aircraft Damage
The bi-plane sustained substantial damage to its four wings and the fuselage as a result of the collision with the post and tree.
Investigation
An FAA Aviation Safety Inspector examined the aircraft at the accident site and found no evidence of any aircraft system or component failure prior to the impact. The NTSB Investigator-in-charge attempted to contact the pilot multiple times but was unsuccessful. The pilot did not submit the NTSB Form 6120.1, which is typically used to provide detailed information about the incident.
No further information is available regarding the specific aircraft type, registration, operator, location, date, or any injuries.