Departure and Windshear Encounter
The pilot of a general aviation aircraft departed on Runway 17 after receiving confirmation from a preceding pilot that the wind was not that bad. During the initial climbout, the aircraft encountered a windshear condition, with the headwind changing to a 20-knot tailwind. Approaching rising terrain at an altitude of approximately 60 to 80 feet above the ground and not climbing, the pilot elected to abort the takeoff.
Aborted Takeoff and Impact
After retarding the throttle to idle, the aircraft subsequently impacted the ground "very hard." The impact caused both wheels to separate from both main landing gear, the nose gear to fold back into the firewall, and the top two engine mounts to separate. There was no postcrash fire, and all occupants exited the aircraft without injury.
Pilot Comments and Conditions
The pilot indicated there were no anomalies with the aircraft prior to or during the departure. The wind at the time of departure was reported as from 170 degrees at 10 knots, gusting to 30 knots. The pilot stated that he felt he should have delayed his takeoff for 1 to 2 hours, as cooler temperatures and calmer winds might have prevailed. It was also noted that although the pilot had recently operated into and out of the airstrip, this was the first time he had attempted taking off on Runway 17. The Airport/Facility Directory cautions against taking off on Runway 17, paying particular attention to density altitude, turbulence, and mountain flying proficiency.