Amateur-built CC11 N55JV accident near Larkspur, Colorado

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane while taking off in gusting quartering tailwind conditions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that while taking off from a downhill sloped meadow, the airplane encountered a strong quartering tailwind gust, which stopped the airplane from climbing. The airplane subsequently sank, and the left wing struck the ground. The airplane’s left wing and fuselage sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that the accident could have been prevented if he had selected a better takeoff site with more options in case of unexpected adverse conditions.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20CA404 for the full record.