Takeoff and Initial Climb
The pilot departed from a 3,375-foot long turf runway, heading northwest. He rotated the airplane at 80 mph and began climbing. At approximately 100 feet above ground level, the aircraft started to descend. The pilot described the sensation as "the plane started to settle in as if the lift was gone."
Pilot Actions and Observations
During the descent, the pilot checked the airspeed indicator, which showed 80 mph or better. He reported no noticeable drop in engine power. Simultaneously, the nose of the airplane began to turn toward the west. The pilot noted that the nose was pushed to the left without a corresponding wing drop in the turn.
Collision with Trees
The pilot recalled clipping at least two trees during the event but stated that the airplane did not impact the ground. After the accident, he observed a strong wind coming from the southeast.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the wing flaps were in the retracted position. No other anomalies were found with the airplane.