NTSB Factual Report

According to the pilot, shortly after applying takeoff power he allowed the tail of the airplane to lift off the ground "too early" and the airplane veered to the left into the grass. The airplane, subsequently, impacted the precision approach path indicator lights with the underside of the airplane. He flew the airplane around the airport traffic pattern and landed uneventfully. A postaccident examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the aft bulkhead was substantially damaged. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion.