Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The operation of an aircraft by a non-certificated pilot. Contributing to the accident was the non-certificated pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control on take-off in gusty wind conditions.
Aircraft Information
Analysis
The non-certificated pilot was attempting to take off in his unregistered powered-parachute to the south when a gust of wind caught the parachute before it had fully inflated. The pilot said the engine was running but he was unable to control the aircraft and collided with a tree. He and his passenger were both seriously injured. Weather reported at an airport 32 miles northwest of the accident was wind from 170 degrees at 15 knots gusting to 24 knots.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN14CA179