Pilot Debrief

MASON ROBERT KOLB MARK 3X near Lawrence, KS — 2013-05-01

Final reportCEN13LA254
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Date
2013-05-01
Location
Lawrence, KS, USA
Airport
Pvt
Aircraft
MASON ROBERT KOLB MARK 3X
Registration
N125KP
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The noncertificated pilot’s improper decision to depart with a tailwind.

NTSB narrative

The noncertificated pilot departed to the south in a light sport airplane from a soft dirt field. A witness heard the airplane's engine and saw the airplane make a slight right turn before it impacted a fence and trees at the end of the field. A postimpact examination of the aircraft and engine did not reveal any anomalies that would have prevented normal operation. Wind conditions reported 6 miles from the accident site were from 060 degrees at 10 knots gusting to 14 knots; thus the airplane was likely subject to a tailwind during the departure.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot should not have attempted takeoff without a valid pilot certificate.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents7

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