Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot failed to maintain clearance from the trees during takeoff into gusting winds.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that she departed runway 36 in the powered parachute and that the wind was from the east. After the aircraft lifted off, the pilot turned the aircraft into the wind. The pilot reported that the aircraft hit a wind gust and lost lift during the subsequent climbout. The powered parachute hit trees that lined the east side of the airport resulting in substantial damage. The pilot in the front seat received serious injuries, and the aft passenger was not injured.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that she departed runway 36 in the powered parachute and that the wind was from the east. After the aircraft lifted off, the pilot turned the aircraft into the wind. The pilot reported that the aircraft hit a wind gust and lost lift during the subsequent climbout. The powered parachute hit trees that lined the east side of the airport resulting in substantial damage. The pilot in the front seat received serious injuries, and the aft passenger was not injured.