Pilot Debrief

Kitfox IV near Gretna, NE — 2023-05-04

Final reportCEN23LA171
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Date
2023-05-04
Location
Gretna, NE, USA
Aircraft
Kitfox IV
Registration
N440RS
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from terrain during a turn immediately after takeoff.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, while taking off from an off-airport site, he turned too early before gaining enough altitude, and the right wing contacted the ground. The pilot lowered the left wing and the airplane’s left tire “contacted the ground sideways.” The wheel sheared off and the left wing contacted the ground which resulted in 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

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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