Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to compensate for a crosswind during initial climb, which resulted in a loss of control.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff, he had difficulty maintaining his intended ground track due to a direct crosswind, and that the airplane subsequently struck the tops of trees, about 20 feet above ground level. Unable to maintain airspeed, he chose to land the airplane in a field. During the forced landing, the airplane impacted several fences and ditches, and the landing gear collapsed. Both wings and the empennage sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, he had difficulties maintaining a ground track due to a direct crosswind, and the airplane subsequently struck the tops of trees, about 20 feet above ground level. Unable to maintain airspeed, he elected to land the airplane in a field. During the forced landing the airplane impacted several fences and ditches. The landing gear collapsed, and both wings and empennage sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.