Piper PA-12 N775PA accident near Wild Rose, Wisconsin

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of directional control during the takeoff roll.

NTSB analysis

The pilot stated that tailwheel-equipped airplane was accelerating on the takeoff roll when the tail became airborne before rotation speed, which was immediately followed by a left yaw/swerve. He attempted to regain directional control with right rudder and brake inputs, but the airplane continued in the left swerve. He elected to abort the takeoff by reducing engine power to idle while continuing to apply right rudder and brake inputs. He used aggressive braking as the airplane approached the left edge of the runway, but the airplane continued off the runway and struck several trees. He noted that the turf-runway was dew covered and that the wind was at approximately 3 knots, with no gusts. The leading edge of both wings, vertical stabilizer, and rudder were substantially damaged during the accident. A postaccident inspection of the airplane did not reveal any mechanical malfunction of the tailwheel or braking systems.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN10CA451 for the full record.