Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control after takeoff resulting in an impact with a power line and the ground.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot departed on a local flight from his private airstrip. The pilot stated that he felt a gust of wind from the west and was not able to maintain control of the airplane. He stated that he did not anticipate the wind directional change as the wind sock was "down" when he took off. The airplane’s left wing impacted a powerline and the airplane impacted terrain. A ground fire occurred.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot departed on a local flight from his private airstrip. The pilot stated, “I feel a gust of wind from the West got me into trouble and I was not able to regain control of my plane. I did not anticipate this directional change as the wind sock was down upon take-off.” The airplane’s left wing impacted a powerline and the airplane impacted terrain. A ground fire occurred.