Accident Details
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during takeoff in gusting tailwind conditions, as the tailwheel lifted, the airplane drifted to the left and departed the runway. The pilot aborted the takeoff and applied maximum braking and reverse thrust. During the runway excursion, the airplane impacted a ditch and spun 180°.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that after exiting the cockpit, he observed dark smoke coming from the exhaust and cowling, with smoldering burning grass. He discharged the onboard fire extinguisher into the engine exhaust, main landing gear, and grass. The pilot noted that hydraulic fluid leaking from a severed brake line and fuel leaking from the cowl and lower right wing were feeding the post-impact fire. Shortly thereafter, the local volunteer fire department arrived and extinguished the fire.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Fire and Damage
The fuselage and both wings sustained substantial damage. The post-impact fire was fueled by hydraulic fluid and fuel, but was ultimately extinguished by the fire department.
Weather Conditions
The pilot reported the wind was 180° at 15 knots with gusts to 28 knots. The closest automated weather observation station, about 38 nautical miles from the accident location, recorded a wind of 180° at 14 knots, gusting to 22 knots. The airplane took off on runway 30.