N497RP

On August 6, 2002, at 1600 central daylight time, a Page Rans S-7 amateur-built airplane, N497RP, was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain during takeoff from the Welsh Airport, Welsh, Louisiana. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot. The private pilot, sole occupant of the airplane, sustained minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a flight plan was not filed for the 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The local flight was originating at the time of the accident and was destined for the Jennings Airport, Jennings, Louisiana.

The 386-hour pilot reported that during a normal takeoff to the north from a turf covered runway, the airplane stalled, and subsequently, impacted the ground. He added that at the time of the accident, the wind was from the north at 10 knots gusting to 15 knots.

According to initial responders to the accident site, the airplane's left wing was "destroyed," and the landing gear separated from the airplane. Additionally, the engine was displaced aft beneath the airplane's fuselage.