Incident Overview
The pilot of an airplane reported that during the takeoff roll, with a left crosswind of 80° at 18 knots and gusts to 24 knots, the airplane unexpectedly became airborne due to a wind gust. The pilot subsequently aborted the takeoff after the airplane drifted off the right side of the runway.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, after becoming airborne prematurely, the airplane touched down again in the dirt alongside the runway. The pilot then closed the throttle and applied braking. As the airplane continued forward, the right wing collided with a runway approach light, causing substantial damage to the wing.
Aircraft and Mechanical Status
The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. No other issues were noted regarding the airplane's systems or performance prior to the incident.
Environmental Conditions
The reported wind conditions during the takeoff attempt included an 80° left crosswind of 18 knots, with gusts reaching 24 knots. The pilot attributed the unexpected liftoff to a wind gust.