Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure attain/maintain pitch control prior to attaining a proper takeoff speed during takeoff roll, which resulted in a premature liftoff of the airplane and loss of control.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
The airplane impacted the runway surface during takeoff after it prematurely lifted off and cartwheeled to a stop facing in the opposite direction. The pilot stated that he knew the airplane was not at flying speed when it lifted off, so he moved the control stick forward to return the airplane to the runway surface, but the airplane bounced and veered left. He added additional engine power in attempt to keep the airplane flying. The left wing then dropped and contacted the runway, cartwheeling the airplane. The pilot reported that there was no mechanical malfunction/failure of the airplane at the time of 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# CEN15CA197