Accident Summary
A departure from an asphalt-surfaced runway in a tundra tire and tailwheel-equipped airplane ended in a runway excursion and collision with trees. The pilot was operating in crosswind conditions when the incident occurred.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, during the departure roll, just as the airplane began to lift off, it yawed to the left. He applied right rudder to correct the yaw. The right main tire then contacted the runway surface, and the airplane veered to the right. The pilot applied left rudder and brake in an attempt to correct the veer, but the airplane continued a slow right turn, exited the runway, and impacted trees.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing struts as a result of the tree impact. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operations.
Pilot Recommendation
In the recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the pilot stated that the accident may have been prevented if he had utilized a gravel-surfaced runway.