Incident Overview
The pilot of an experimental light sport aircraft intended to depart from the airport and return home. According to the pilot's statement, prior to takeoff he observed that the windsock displayed no movement, indicating calm conditions, and proceeded with the takeoff roll.
Flight Events
Following liftoff, while climbing through approximately 20 feet above ground level, the aircraft encountered a left crosswind. This caused the airplane to deviate to the right. The pilot responded by applying left aileron and left rudder control inputs, then subsequently removed those inputs. As the climb continued to about 30 feet agl, a second wind gust pushed the airplane to the right at a rate faster than the pilot could apply corrections.
Collision and Aftermath
The right wingtip made contact with a treetop. This contact caused the airplane to reverse its flight direction and descend rapidly. The aircraft then struck the ground, resulting in structural damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions.
Designer's Perspective
A representative of the aircraft designer noted that a 10 knot crosswind is within the airplane's maximum demonstrated crosswind limitation.