The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the biplane during takeoff.
— NTSB Determination
The pilot reported that during the takeoff as the tailwheel lifted, the biplane veered "hard right" and exited the runway. He added that he "felt" he had enough speed to fly and attempted to lift off. Subsequently, the biplane struck a tree.
The biplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings.
The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
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