The pilot reported that during takeoff from an off-airport location near Arlington, Arizona, the CubCrafters CC11-160 hit a Saguaro cactus.
The airplane spun to the left and hit the ground before coming to rest in a ravine.
The left-wing spar was substantially damaged and the pilot sustained serious injuries in the crash.
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain obstacle clearance during takeoff, which resulted in a collision with a cactus and impact with terrain.
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This March 2021 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Note to self: stay away from the cactus next time.