Accident Details
Date
Saturday, February 18, 2017
NTSB Number
GAA17CA144
Location
Borger, TX
Event ID
20170221X24348
Coordinates
35.700000, -101.394165
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 failure to maintain directional control of the biplane during takeoff.
Aircraft Information
Registration
N591P
Make
PITTS SPECIAL
Serial Number
CP-1
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Registered Owner (Historical)
Name
SALE REPORTED
Address
6000 DOUGLAS DR N
Status
Deregistered
City
CRYSTAL
State / Zip Code
MN 55429-2314
Country
United States
Analysis
The pilot reported that during the takeoff as the tailwheel lifted, the biplane veered "hard right" and exited the runway. He added that he "felt" he had enough speed to fly and attempted to lift off. Subsequently, the biplane struck a tree.
The biplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings.
The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA17CA144