N12121

On October 5, 1997, at 1515 central daylight time, a Reed-Madsen Taylor Bird, N12121, operated by a commercial pilot, was substantially damaged when shortly after takeoff the airplane impacted the terrain. The pilot/builder reported no injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The personal flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 and no flight plan was on file. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

In a written statement, the pilot said that he completed a run-up and checked the flight controls prior to takeoff from runway 30 (3400'x 60'.) The airplane lifted off after a ground roll of approximately 2000', just prior to the intersection of the perpendicular runway. The pilot then stated that his flight controls didn't seem to be working. Shortly thereafter, the airplane banked to the right and pitched down, causing the right wing and nose to contact the runway. The airplane then slid onto the grass where it struck a runway marker light, coming to rest facing the opposite direction of intended travel. The pilot stated that it "was a ground effect stall." He said that he looked at the airspeed indicator once before rotation and it indicated 40 knots.

The aircraft was inspected and found to be resting in a grassy area adjacent to runway 12/30 on the north side approximately 500' northwest of a taxiway intersection. The forward fuselage structure, landing gear, and belly showed substantial damage. There was also damage to the right wing tip. There were ground scars and skid marks on the runway between 415' and 450' from the main wreckage. The airplane's flight control surfaces were checked and determined to be functioning properly.

According to a Federal Aviation Administration inspector, the pilot-in-command underwent a second class medical examination on July 10, 1997, but was not given a medical certificate upon completion. In August, 1997, the pilot was given a three-day biennial flight review, but was not signed-off/endorsed upon completion.