Accident Overview
The aircraft was destroyed during a precautionary landing initiated after the left side of the engine cowling opened shortly after takeoff. The pilot reported that the cowling opened at an altitude of approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL). A climb to 300 feet was made, and the aircraft was turned onto the downwind leg of a landing pattern.
Pilot's Account
In an interview, the pilot stated that due to turbulence and a fear that the cowling would separate from the aircraft, he panicked and attempted to land in an open field. The aircraft subsequently contacted the terrain in a nose-down, left bank attitude, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft.
Sequence of Events
- Shortly after takeoff, the left engine cowling opened.
- The pilot climbed to 300 feet and turned onto downwind.
- Turbulence and concerns about cowling separation led the pilot to attempt a field landing.
- During the landing attempt, the aircraft impacted the ground in a nose-down left bank attitude.
The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, date, occupants, injuries, or the time of day. No toxicology tests or injury details were provided in the source.