Event Description
A pilot was taking off from a strip located near a campsite. The strip was situated on a hill, positioned on a level bench area, and oriented generally in a north/south direction. The pilot lifted off near the end of the runway at an indicated speed of approximately 50 to 55 miles per hour. About 300 feet from the end of the runway, the aircraft began to settle. Subsequently, it touched down on rough terrain and sustained substantial damage.
Environmental Conditions
The pilot reported that the wind was from 080 degrees at about 15 knots, gusting to 18 knots. The aircraft was equipped with a Robertson STOL kit, which, according to the pilot, diminishes its crosswind capability. The pilot believed that due to the terrain, the wind beyond the end of the runway had shifted to a quartering tailwind.
Pilot Account
The pilot stated that he lifted off near the end of the runway at approximately 50 to 55 miles per hour. He reported that the aircraft began to settle about 300 feet from the end of the runway. The pilot further noted that the Robertson STOL kit reduces the aircraft's crosswind capability. He attributed the wind shift beyond the runway end to the terrain, which caused the wind to become a quartering tailwind.