Introduction
A commercial certificated pilot was conducting a Title 14, CFR Part 135 cross-country air taxi flight from a remote mountain ridge. The takeoff area was approximately 500 feet long and 15 feet wide. The pilot reported that the departure was performed downhill with a 10 mph quartering tailwind.
Sequence of Events
Approximately 250 feet from the starting point of the takeoff roll, the crosswind component pushed the airplane to the right. The right wing subsequently collided with a tree, causing the airplane to veer to the right. As a result, the left main landing gear collapsed. The airplane sustained structural damage to the right wing.
Aircraft Damage
The right wing received structural damage from the collision with the tree, and the left main landing gear was collapsed. No other damage was reported.
Conclusion
The incident occurred during a takeoff from a constrained ridgeline environment. The pilot reported the wind conditions and the sequence of events as described. No further details were provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, or other factors.