Primary finding
Probable cause
The noncertificated pilot's exceedance of the airplane's critical angle of attack during the initial climb, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The noncertificated pilot reported that, during the initial climb after takeoff from an off-airport field, he decided to turn the airplane toward more favorable terrain to continue the climb. He added that the airplane then encountered a quartering tailwind, and about 30 ft above ground level, it aerodynamically stalled and then impacted a pole and terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that the airplane was near its gross takeoff weight but that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The noncertificated pilot reported that, during the initial climb after takeoff from an off-airport field, he decided to turn the unregistered aircraft toward more favorable terrain to continue the climb. He added that the airplane then encountered a quartering tailwind, and about 30 ft above ground aerodynamically stalled, and impacted a pole and terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that the airplane was near gross takeoff weight, but there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The automated weather observation station, located 12 miles east of the accident, reported that, about 43 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 090° at 8 knots, 10 statute miles visibility, clear skies, temperature 33°C (91°F), dew point 18°C (64°F). The pilot departed the aircraft to the west.