Pilot Debrief

HANDY JAMES L BUCKEYE DREAM MACH near West Caln, PA — 2012-09-01

Final reportERA12CA548
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Date
2012-09-01
Location
West Caln, PA, USA
Aircraft
HANDY JAMES L BUCKEYE DREAM MACH
Registration
N4258M
Category
Powered parachute
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate compensation for the wind during the initial climb, which resulted in collision with a tree and terrain.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot of the powered parachute, he took off in a westerly direction with a right crosswind, and during the initial climb, the parachute veered left. The pilot tried to correct the direction of flight, but the cart struck a tree and then impacted the ground, seriously injuring the pilot and substantially damaging the metal tube airframe. According to a witness, the powered parachute was flying “normal” until a gust of wind pushed it into the tree. Postaccident examination revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the powered parachute that would have precluded normal operation. The wind reported at an airport 4 miles to the southeast of the accident location was from 360 degrees at 5 knots.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 6 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents6

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