Flight Design CTSW N370CT accident near Punta Gorda, Florida

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during a rejected takeoff. Contributing to the accident was a gust of wind.

NTSB analysis

The pilot was practicing takeoffs when he made his third departure. The pilot stated that as the airplane was approaching take off speed, a gust of wind caused the airplane to veer to the right. He stated that he utilized the flight controls to stay pointing straight and on the centerline of the runway. The wind gust subsided and the airplane started "fishtailing" on the runway. The pilot then reduced power and applied brakes, while attempting not to "oversteer" the airplane. The airplane was almost stopped when the nose gear of the airplane departed the left edge of the runway, sank into the sand, and the airplane nosed over. Examination of the airplane revealed no preimpact deficiencies.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09LA079 for the full record.