What happened
The flight began with a takeoff attempt conducted into a light tailwind of approximately five knots. Shortly after leaving the ground, the aircraft deviated laterally to the left of the intended runway heading. In an effort to correct the trajectory and realign the aircraft with the runway centerline, the pilot made control inputs that resulted in a significant loss of airspeed. The aircraft entered a low-speed condition, described as mushing or stalling, and impacted the ground approximately 200 yards beyond the departure end of the runway.
The investigation
The examination focused on the flight dynamics during the initial climb phase. Investigators noted that the combination of the tailwind component and the lateral deviation required immediate and precise energy management. The failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the correction maneuver was identified as the primary mechanical factor leading to the loss of lift.
Findings
The accident was caused by the pilot's loss of control during the takeoff phase. Contributing factors included the tailwind component and the decision to prioritize lateral alignment over maintaining safe airspeed, resulting in a stall before a climb could be established.