Pilot Debrief

VOLIN KITFOX CLASSIC IV near Myrtle Creek, OR — 2011-03-04

Final reportWPR11FA153
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Date
2011-03-04
Location
Myrtle Creek, OR, USA
Airport
16S
Aircraft
VOLIN KITFOX CLASSIC IV
Registration
N4374K
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The pilot's encounter with a windshear/downdraft that exceeded the climb performance capabilities of the airplane.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that while taxiing to the runway run-up area, he observed the windsock aligned with his intended departure runway. Following an uneventful engine run up, the pilot taxied onto the runway and observed the windsock shift direction momentarily to indicate about a 90 degree crosswind, and then realign with the runway. The pilot initiated the takeoff roll, and the airplane lifted off normally. During the initial climb, the pilot scanned all of the flight instruments, noting a positive climb rate. Shortly thereafter, the airplane encountered a wind gust from the left, rolling the airplane about 90 degrees to the right. The pilot leveled the wings and felt the airplane descending. Despite the pilot's attempts to arrest the descent, the airplane continued to descend. Subsequently, the airplane struck several small trees and impacted the ground. Examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Review of recorded weather data from a weather station near the accident site revealed wind from 170 degrees at 7 knots, gusting to 19 knots about 24 minutes before the accident. About 36 minutes after the accident, the wind was recorded from 180 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 26 knots.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted takeoff after observing wind gusts and engine warning light.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents6

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