Pilot Debrief

THOMAS J HANKAMP VAN'S AIRCRAFT RV4 near Poughkeepsie, NY — 2017-07-28

Final reportGAA17CA480
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Date
2017-07-28
Location
Poughkeepsie, NY, USA
Airport
POU
Aircraft
THOMAS J HANKAMP VAN'S AIRCRAFT RV4
Registration
N9214
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during a "taxi test" in crosswind conditions, he overcorrected, and the airplane ground looped. Subsequently, the airplane exited the runway to the right and came to rest nose down. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall. 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 system on the accident airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 320° at 5 knots. The pilot was departing from runway 06. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector reported that, throughout many conversations with the pilot, the initial statement was that the pilot lost control during takeoff and did have intent for flight. The FAA inspector verified this after talking with the local tower, who had cleared the airplane for takeoff.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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