NTSB Factual Report

The commercial certificated pilot was departing from a private airstrip surrounded by trees in a wheel-equipped experimental airplane, during a Title 14, CFR Part 91 personal flight. After becoming airborne, a gust of wind pushed the airplane to the left, and the left wing struck a stand of trees, which pivoted the airplane to the left. The airplane subsequently collided with the ground, and sustained structural damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. The pilot noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, which resulted in an in-flight collision with trees during takeoff. Factors associated with the accident were wind gusts, and trees bordering the airstrip.