What happened
The aircraft, NC3004N, was involved in an incident during the initial phase of flight. The pilot had a check pilot aboard for the flight. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft encountered a right quartering tailwind. Upon reaching rotation speed, the pilot made the decision to abort the flight.
To execute the abort, the pilot abruptly reduced engine power. Consequently, the aircraft settled back onto the runway surface. Due to the wind conditions and the sudden loss of lift, the aircraft ground looped. During this uncontrolled movement, the left landing gear struck a knoll on the ground. The impact caused the left gear to collapse.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the landing gear following the ground loop. Examination confirmed that the left landing gear had collapsed after striking an obstruction. The pilot reported that the sequence of events was initiated by the abrupt reduction of power during the abort maneuver.