Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain control of the airplane when it unexpectedly encountered a whirlwind shortly after takeoff.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot took off from a private strip on an aerial application flight. While climbing away from the runway the airplane began a left turning tendency. The pilot suspected the airplane encountered a whirlwind and attempted to maintain control of the airplane. When the airplane entered a "dead air space" the airplane was approximately 5 to 10 feet above the ground. The airplane subsequently collided with terrain and came to a stop in the upright position. Substantial damage was sustained to both wings. An inspection of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector did not reveal any pre-impact anomalies.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot took off from a private strip on an aerial application flight. While climbing away from the runway the airplane began a left turning tendency. The pilot suspected the airplane encountered a whirlwind and attempted to maintain control of the airplane. When the airplane entered a "dead air space" the airplane was approximately 5 to 10 feet above the ground. The airplane subsequently collided with terrain and came to a stop in the upright position. Substantial damage was sustained to both wings. An inspection of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector did not reveal any pre-impact anomalies.