NTSB Factual Report

The airplane was substantially damaged when it impacted a tree during takeoff from a gravel road. The road was oriented north-south and the piloted attempted to depart to the south. The pilot stated that during the takeoff, as he passed a building on the west side of the road, a "hell of a gust of wind" overpowered the airplane. He was unable to maintain control and the airplane subsequently impacted a tree along the east side of the road. He noted that winds were from the west at approximately 30 knots, with higher gusts. The pilot stated that there were no failures or malfunctions associated with the airplane prior to the accident.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during takeoff due to the high crosswind condition. Contributing factors were the high, gusting crosswind, and the tree.