NTSB Factual Report

In a written statement, the pilot reported that prior to departure in his tailwheel-equipped airplane, he observed the windsock. It was indicating strong winds perpendicular to the runway and variable gusts. He stated that he waited until he saw a favorable (headwind) gust and then applied takeoff power. During the takeoff roll, the airplane encountered a strong gust of wind from the right, which lifted the right wing and the left wing struck the runway. The airplane pivoted to the left, veered off the runway surface, and impacted a dirt berm. The airplane sustained structural damage to the wings. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine. The nearest weather reporting station, located 38 nautical miles south of the accident airport, reported winds at the time of the accident were at 3.3 miles per hour (mph) gusting to 14.3 mph.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the gusting crosswinds during takeoff.