Flight Details
The flight departed from Rock Hill Airport on a cross-country trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with a planned stop in Lumberton, North Carolina. While over Lumberton, the pilot observed thunderstorms located 16 miles east and southeast of Lumberton Municipal Airport. Rather than continuing to Myrtle Beach, the pilot decided to land at Lumberton, refuel the aircraft, and return to Rock Hill Airport.
Accident Sequence
During the takeoff from runway 05, the pilot reported encountering a downdraft approximately 50 feet above the ground after liftoff. The aircraft subsequently collided with the ground in the grassy area to the right of the runway.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the aircraft found no evidence of a mechanical malfunction or component failure that could have contributed to the accident.
Weather Conditions
Emergency responders at the scene reported a strong gust of wind ranging from 30 to 40 miles per hour around the time of the accident, with thunderstorm activity present in the area.