Aircraft Impacts Ground After Steep Climb and Spiral at Candlelight Farms Airport (N377SW)

Accident Sequence

Following departure from Runway 16 at Candlelight Farms Airport, the aircraft maintained a low altitude over the runway while building airspeed. As it neared the upwind end of the runway, witnesses reported seeing the aircraft initiate a steep climb. The climb continued until the aircraft reached an estimated altitude of 700 feet above the ground level. At the apex of the climb, the nose of the aircraft lowered, and the aircraft entered a descending spiral motion. The spiral continued uninterrupted until the aircraft struck the terrain on the airport property, near the upwind end of the runway.

Investigation

Examination of the aircraft and its engine after the accident did not uncover any evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction that occurred prior to the collision with the ground. The investigation focused on the documented flight path and witness observations. No further factors were identified in the available information.