N29CA

Substantial
Minor

Vans Aircraft Inc RV-12S/N: 120185

Accident Details

Date
Thursday, June 24, 2010
NTSB Number
CEN10CA342
Location
Salida, CO
Event ID
20100624X30533
Coordinates
38.538055, -106.048614
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
1
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s incorrect elevator trim setting and his inexperience in the airplane make/model.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N29CA
Make
VANS AIRCRAFT INC
Serial Number
120185
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Model / ICAO
RV-12RV12
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Analysis

As the Experimental, Light-Sport Airplane (LSA) accelerated down the runway for its first flight, the airplane’s nose suddenly pitched up approximately 60 degrees. The pilot attempted to lower the nose by applying forward control stick pressure, but to no avail. The airplane stalled, pitched nose down, and impacted the ground; which resulted in the collapse of the nose landing gear and structural damage to the firewall. The airplane came to rest in an upright position and the pilot was able to exit the airplane unassisted. The pilot later reported that he had incorrectly set the airplane’s elevator trim which resulted in the uncommanded pitch up as the airplane approached flying speed. In addition, the pilot reported that this was his first flight in the airplane make/model.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN10CA342