Accident Overview
A pilot operating a tailwheel-equipped airplane from a remote off-airport site reported that shortly after takeoff, while the aircraft was still in ground effect, a crosswind pushed the airplane over the edge of a hill. As the airplane crossed the hill, the wind direction changed, and it subsequently settled back to the ground, colliding with terrain.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the left wing, right wing, and horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Pilot Statement
According to the pilot, the sequence of events began just after liftoff when the crosswind affected the aircraft's lateral control. The airplane descended and contacted the terrain after the wind shifted over the hill.