Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot not maintaining clearance/altitude from the trees during takeoff initial climb. Factors were the trees and reported turbulent winds.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during a local personal flight he was climbing after a touch and go. He stated that he "started feeling the [powered parachute] start rocking and rolling. ... We were climbing well enough to clear any trees. As we approached the north end of the pasture I lost altitude and began to swing, as if there were turbulence in that area of the pasture. I realized that I may not clear the trees so I began to cut a sharp right turn to avoid the trees and the propeller caught a branch and shattered and we went down next to a creek bed." The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions with the powered parachute reference the accident flight.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that during a local personal flight he was climbing after a touch and go. He stated that he "started feeling the [powered parachute] start rocking and rolling. ... We were climbing well enough to clear any trees. As we approached the north end of the pasture I lost altitude and began to swing, as if there were turbulence in that area of the pasture. I realized that I may not clear the trees so I began to cut a sharp right turn to avoid the trees and the propeller caught a branch and shattered and we went down next to a creek bed." The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions with the powered parachute reference the accident flight.