Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
the pilot's failure to maintain altitude during an aerobatic maneuver on takeoff. A factor related to the accident was the pilot performing an aerobatic maneuver.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
HISTORY OF FLIGHT
On April 2, 1994, at 0930 central standard time, a Starduster II SA-300, N107UP, operated as an experimental aircraft by Robert Ely of Baxter Springs, Kansas, impacted terrain 200 yards south of the Baxter Springs Airport and was destroyed. The private pilot received fatal injuries. Visual meteorological conditions existed at the time of the accident and no flight plan was filed.
The flight operated under 14 CFR Part 91, and was on a local maintenance check flight following exhaust system repairs. Immediately after takeoff, at an altitude of approximately 200 feet, the airplane was observed rolling inverted and impacting the ground.
PERSONNEL INFORMATION
Local witnesses reported that the 42 year old private pilot had a history of performing aileron rolls immediately after takeoff and other low level aerobatic maneuvers.
WRECKAGE AND IMPACT INFORMATION
The airplane impacted in an inverted attitude. Post crash inspection revealed no control system anomalies. A metallurgical examination of aileron control rod fracture surfaces showed overstress type failures, with no indications of fatigue or pre-existing cracks.
MEDICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL INFORMATION
Toxicological testing was negative for ethanol and drugs. Suitable samples were not available for Carbon Monoxide and Cyanide. No autopsy was performed.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CHI94DCQ01