Accident Overview
The airplane was destroyed when it collided with terrain shortly after departure. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was killed.
Witness Observations
Two witnesses observed the accident airplane lift off from the runway. They described the flight path as erratic, with random movement in all three axes: pitch, roll, and yaw. The witnesses did not see the actual impact.
Aircraft Condition
Evidence indicates that the upper half of the main entry clamshell door was not closed at the time of impact. The door was found in an open position.
Pilot Communications
Radio transmissions from the accident airplane during flight showed an elevated voice level, indicative of stress, as the pilot attempted to maintain control during pitch and roll excursions. The transmissions were unintelligible. The tower had cleared the aircraft to land on any runway.
Probable Cause and Findings
The official probable cause was an aerodynamically stalled lifting surface causing an uncommanded pitch over at an altitude too low to affect a recovery. Contributing findings include an unsecured door, inadequate preflight by the pilot in command, and failure to maintain aircraft control. The pilot's anxiety and apprehension were also noted as factors.