Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s inadequate pretakeoff checks and failure to maintain control during the takeoff roll. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s diverted attention due to the open canopy.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll at the time of rotation, the canopy started to slide rearward. As the pilot attempted to close the canopy, the airplane nosed over and the propeller struck the runway substantially damaging the airplane’s firewall. The pilot further reported that the accident could have been prevented by conducting a “second check of proper canopy closure prior to entering [the] runway.” The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# WPR10CA428