Incident Overview
A commercial pilot reported that prior to starting a takeoff from a 1,500-foot-long volcanic cinder bed, he observed the prevailing winds were from the north at 15 knots. During a northerly takeoff, just after liftoff, the northerly winds dissipated. The airplane subsequently would not continue to climb and collided with a stand of trees at the departure end of the site.
Damage Assessment
The collision resulted in substantial damage to the airplane's wings, fuselage, and empennage. No preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane were reported by the pilot.
Pilot Report
The commercial pilot stated that there were no mechanical issues with the airplane prior to the accident. The sudden change in wind conditions was noted as the only significant factor in the sequence of events.
The accident occurred during the takeoff phase from a natural surface runway consisting of volcanic cinders. The departure end of the site was bordered by trees, which the airplane struck after failing to maintain climb performance.