Engineering & Research 415 N2377H accident near Collinsville, Oklahoma

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in a high density altitude condition, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with a tree.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that during the takeoff rotation, the nose came up and the left wing rose, but as he looked to the right wing it appeared low and "the next thing he knew" the airplane was going about 45 degrees across the runway to the right, headed for a tree. The pilot further reported that he reduced throttle and applied the brakes while turning left to no avail. The airplane subsequently impacted a tree and spun clockwise about 90 degrees sustaining substantial damage to the right wing and aft fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no pre impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

The pilot recommended that due to the density altitude and low powered airplane it may not have been a good condition for departure.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA395 for the full record.