N111TE

On August 25, 1999, about 1749 Eastern Daylight Time, an Aeromot AMT-300 (powered glider), N111TE, was destroyed during takeoff from Block Island State Airport (BID), Block Island, Rhode Island. The certificated private pilot sustained minor injuries, and the passenger sustained serious injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight, destined for Hartford-Brainard Airport, Hartford, Connecticut. No flight plan was filed for the personal flight conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

The pilot stated that he completed a preflight inspection of the powered glider, performed a run-up, and departed Runway 28 at BID. During the takeoff, he was unable to clear trees at the end of the runway. He added that the normal takeoff distance for the powered glider was 800 feet. The pilot did not know why the 2,501 foot long runway was not sufficient, but said that the engine was producing full power. He further stated that in retrospect, he should have aborted the takeoff.

When asked about the spoilers, the pilot stated that he sometimes used them during taxi. He had to back-taxi on Runway 28, but could not remember if he used the spoilers. When asked if he departed with the spoilers deployed, he stated that it was possible.

The passenger was asked about the spoilers. She stated that, after the accident, she and the pilot discussed the possibility of departing with the spoilers deployed. They could not remember the position of the spoilers prior to takeoff.

Examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration Inspector did not reveal any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions. The Inspector observed the left wing spoiler in the extended position, but could not determine the pre-impact position. The Inspector added that a large portion of the wreckage was consumed by fire.