Amateur-built JUST ACFT HIGHLANDER N376CG accident near Abingdon, Virginia

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions during the aborted takeoff.

NTSB analysis

The pilot stated that he positioned the airplane on runway 24 and increased engine power to begin the takeoff roll but subsequently aborted the takeoff when he noted that the wind was becoming stronger. He stated that the wind lifted the airplane sideways and off the left side of the runway, where the airplane impacted a ditch, resulting in substantial damage to the empennage and wing spar. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane. About the time of the accident, the recorded wind at the airport was from 350 degrees at 18 knots gusting to 30 knots with thunderstorms in the vicinity.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA11CA455 for the full record.