What happened
Shortly after liftoff, while flying at an altitude of about 10 feet above ground level and a speed of approximately 95 mph in level flight, the pilot found the controls ineffective. The aircraft impacted the ground with full power applied, landing in a crabbed attitude before bouncing back into the air. The aircraft still would not climb, so the pilot lowered the nose to gain airspeed. The aircraft impacted a mound of rocks, causing it to nose over and come to rest inverted. There is a mountain west of the airport.
The investigation
The investigation revealed that the aircraft experienced a loss of control shortly after takeoff. The pilot reported that the controls were ineffective while flying at low altitude. The aircraft impacted the ground multiple times, first bouncing back into the air and then striking a mound of rocks. The impact caused the aircraft to nose over and come to rest inverted.
Findings
The investigation found that the loss of control was likely due to a combination of factors, including the pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft after the initial impact. The presence of a mountain west of the airport may have contributed to the accident by limiting the pilot's options for recovery.
Safety message
Pilots should be aware of the potential for loss of control shortly after takeoff and should ensure that they are able to maintain control of the aircraft in all flight conditions. Additionally, pilots should be familiar with the terrain around the airport and plan their escape routes accordingly.