NTSB Factual Report

On March 5, 2005, about 1415 eastern standard time, a Piper PA-32-301T, N588ET, registered to MS Risk Services Inc. and operated by a private individual, as a Title 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight, collapsed the nose gear after it departed off the left side of the runway during takeoff roll at Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport, Destin, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The private-rated pilot and the passenger received no injuries, and the airplane incurred substantial damage. The flight was originating at the time.

The pilot stated that the winds were from the east at about 11 knots gusting to 19 knots prior to the takeoff from runway 32. About 700 feet in the takeoff roll, while keeping the airplane straight with right rudder and right aileron due to the crosswind and at an indicated airspeed of 70 knots, during rotation the airplane swerved to the left. He could not hold the airplane straight. He and the passenger felt a sensation that the tail of the airplane was being pushed forward and to the right making the nose move left. He noted the airplane was departing the runway and "cut power" followed by the airplane sudden stop in the sand.

The FAA Inspector who responded to the accident stated that the pilot said that at about rotation speed the aircraft suddenly swerved to the left and came to rest off the left side of the runway. An airframe and power plant mechanic examined the aircraft after the accident, and the flight controls, steering rods, springs, and cables were found to be intact and have full continuity. The nose wheel and axle had no anomalies.

The Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) reported winds during the time of the accident were from 240 at 12 knots gusting to 19 knots.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind during a crosswind takeoff resulting in a loss of directional control and subsequent collision with terrain.