On October 17, 1991, a Champion 7ECA (registration N11077) operated by Rosenthal, E.j/ Smisson, C was involved in an aviation accident near Whitesburg, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft due to a wind shift during climbout. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot encountered a sudden wind shift during climbout, leading to an uncontrolled collision with trees near the airport.
What happened
The pilot reported encountering a wind shift approximately 50 feet above the ground during the climbout phase of flight. This sudden change in wind conditions resulted in an uncontrolled collision with trees.
Witnesses at the airport observed swirling wind conditions at the approximate time of the accident, corroborating the pilot's report of unusual atmospheric conditions.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage failed to disclose any mechanical failure or system malfunction that could have contributed to the accident. The physical evidence pointed to external environmental factors rather than aircraft performance issues.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft due to a wind shift during climbout.