Event Overview
A pilot and owner of an airplane reported a sequence of events involving an engine failure, a forced landing, and a subsequent takeoff that led to a collision with tree branches. The incident occurred after the pilot had successfully landed on a road following a complete loss of engine power.
Engine Failure and Landing
According to the pilot, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power in flight. The pilot performed an uneventful forced landing onto a roadway. The cause of the engine failure was later determined to be a blocked fuel vent tube.
Subsequent Takeoff and Accident
After landing, the pilot added additional fuel to the airplane and conducted a normal engine run-up. The pilot noted approximately 1,500 feet of straight roadway available for takeoff and decided to depart to the west, which was toward a valley. During the initial climb, the airplane encountered a sudden crosswind and struck tree branches. The collision resulted in substantial damage to the left outboard wing and the right inboard horizontal stabilizer. Despite the damage, the pilot was able to continue the flight and landed at the intended destination without further incident.
Pilot and Aircraft Information
The pilot reported that no malfunctions or failures occurred during the accident takeoff that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane. The airplane had been operated for about 17 hours since its most recent annual inspection, which was performed approximately 7 months prior.
Weather Conditions
Wind data from an airport located about 20 miles northeast of the accident site, recorded around the time of the incident, indicated winds from 140 degrees at 7 knots.