Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's improper pitch trim setting during takeoff in a left quartering tailwind, which resulted in the airplane abruptly pitching up and subsequently experiencing an aerodynamic stall. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's failure to follow a preflight checklist and verify that the elevator trim tab was in the takeoff position.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll, about 60 knots, the airplane lifted off in nose high attitude and the stall warning horn actuated. About 20 feet above the ground, the airplane rotated to the right, but he overcorrected, and the left-wing tip struck the runway. Shortly after, he landed the airplane without further incident.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The automated weather observation station located on the airport reported that, about 15 minutes before the accident, the wind was 230° at 9 knots. The pilot reported the wind was calm. The airplane departed from runway 35L.
The pilot added that post-accident the elevator trim was found set to nose high, and that he should have used a pre-takeoff checklist to verify the elevator trim was set to the takeoff position.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA19CA587