Primary finding
Probable cause
The airplane's encounter with turbulence after takeoff, which resulted in an uncontrolled descent and collision with terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during the initial takeoff and climb from Runway 23 he encountered "severe clear air turbulence" about midway down the runway. He regained control and continued the climb. Towards the end of the runway, at 300 to 400 feet above ground level, the airplane encountered more "clear air turbulence which took the airplane south of the runway and all the way to the ground." Local law enforcement reported seeing dust devils and whirlwinds in the area after the accident. The pilot reported that the winds were from 230 degrees at 15 knots. He stated that there was no mechanical failure or malfunction with the airplane's flight control system or engine prior to the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that during the initial takeoff and climb from runway 23, he encountered "severe clear air turbulence" about midway down the runway. He regained control and continued the climb. Towards the end of the runway, at 300 to 400 feet above ground level (agl), the airplane encountered more "clear air turbulence which took the airplane south of the runway and all the way to the ground." Local law enforcement reported seeing dust devils and whirlwinds in the area after the accident. The pilot reported that the winds were from 230 degrees at 15 knots. He stated that there was no mechanical failure or malfunction with the airplane's flight control system or engine prior to the accident.