What happened
During the takeoff roll on Runway 34, a Gulfstream G-IV encountered a 24-knot crosswind from 280°. Approximately 1,340 feet into the takeoff, the aircraft drifted left, deviating 5.14° from the centerline to a heading of 335°. As the aircraft left the paved surface, evidence showed that no braking had been initiated. During the excursion, the crew engaged in conflicting verbal commands regarding the use of reverse thrust.
The aircraft subsequently crossed a shallow ditch running parallel to the runway. This impact caused the separation of the left and right flaps, both main landing gear, and a portion of the left aileron control cable. After striking a small berm at the end of the runway, the aircraft became airborne. During the event, an explosion occurred in the left wing fuel tank. The primary wreckage was recovered roughly 6,650 feet from the initial takeoff point.
Findings
Investigations into the aircraft's condition revealed that the engines, flight controls, and various onboard systems were functioning normally without prior anomalies. However, the Nose Wheel Steering Select Control Switch was discovered in the Handwheel Only position rather than the standard Normal position, a setting that deviated from the pilot-in-command's routine procedures.
Additionally, the flight crew consisted of a mixed crew operating under an Interchange Agreement between two different operators. The investigation noted that the existing operation manuals and the terms of the Interchange Agreement failed to provide guidance regarding mixed crew operations, differences in procedures, or specific training for aircraft variations.