N78E

Substantial
None

Elkins Christen Eagle IIS/N: 0001

Accident Details

Date
Sunday, October 25, 2009
NTSB Number
ERA10CA033
Location
Athens, KY
Event ID
20091027X10906
Coordinates
37.942222, -84.358886
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improper liftoff, resulting in a collision with the ground during climbout.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N78E
Make
ELKINS
Serial Number
0001
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1987
Model / ICAO
Christen Eagle IISA02
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
LARKIN EDWARD C
Address
3728 LIPSCOMB RD
Status
Deregistered
City
COVINGTON
State / Zip Code
KY 41015-2484
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot stated that during takeoff from the turf runway, he became airborne at "lower than normal" airspeed. The pilot lowered the airplane's nose to gain airspeed, and the airplane's main landing gear contacted the ground. He reported hearing a "metallic sound" and "suspected damage to the right wheel pant." The pilot proceeded with the takeoff, and chose to circle the airport and land to inspect the damage. According to the pilot, the approach to landing was normal and the touchdown was "firm but within normal range." Upon touchdown, both left and right main landing gears collapsed, and the airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector who examined the airplane after the accident reported identifying no mechanical malfunctions.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA10CA033