Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff in gusting crosswind conditions, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with a runway approach light.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll with a reported 80° left crosswind of 18 knots, with gusts to 24 knots, the airplane unexpectedly became airborne due to a wind gust. The pilot aborted the takeoff when the airplane drifted off the right side of the runway, and landed in the dirt, closed the throttle and applied braking. As the airplane continued forward its right wing collided with a runway approach light, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing.
The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# WPR20CA100