What happened
The incident occurred during operations on an unpaved surface. During the initial phase of takeoff from a grass strip, the aircraft encountered resistance that impeded its ascent. The left main landing gear and the adjacent wingtip made contact with runway lighting fixtures and a fencepost situated near the departure end of the runway. This collision contributed to the aircraft being slow to climb. After managing to clear the trees at the end of the runway, the aircraft descended below the treetop level but successfully continued its flight to the intended destination.
Upon arrival, the aircraft proceeded with the landing roll. During this phase, the left main landing gear failed structurally and collapsed. The loss of support caused the aircraft to slide along the surface until it came to a complete stop.
The investigation
A post-incident examination of the airframe was conducted to assess the extent of the damage. Inspectors found evidence of impact with vegetation, specifically noting tree twigs embedded in sections of the tail structure. This finding corroborated the narrative that the aircraft had flown through or near tree line during the departure phase.
Findings
The sequence of events indicates a performance issue during the initial climb-out. The contact with ground obstacles and the subsequent slow climb rate suggest that the aircraft did not achieve optimal lift or acceleration during takeoff. The structural failure of the left main landing gear during the landing roll appears to be a consequence of the stresses placed on the gear system, potentially exacerbated by the earlier ground contact or normal operational loads.
Safety message
Pilots operating from unpaved surfaces should ensure that the runway length and condition are sufficient for the aircraft's weight and performance capabilities. Monitoring climb performance closely after leaving the ground is critical to avoiding obstacles and ensuring a safe departure profile.