NTSB Factual Report

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during a touch-and-go landing on a turf airstrip, he applied power for takeoff, the airplane drifted left, and he applied right aileron and left rudder. As the airplane accelerated it began drifting further left until it departed the runway to the left onto the grass. The pilot reported that the airspeed was about 60 mph and that he felt he could fly out of the situation. However, he realized the airplane was approaching a hill with trees and a house too quickly and would not clear the trees. He then applied right rudder and the airplane turned 90 degrees to the runway and began to skid. The airplane skidded crossed the runway and hit a ditch. The left landing gear collapsed followed by the right, and the airplane skidded to a stop.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located about 14 miles to the southwest, revealed that, at 1255 MDT, conditions were wind 190 degrees true at 13 knots, gusting to 21 knots. The airplane landed on runway 17.

NTSB Probable Cause

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