Pilot Debrief

Airframes Unlimited USA-1B near Surry, VA — 2008-09-07

Final reportMIA08CA191
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Date
2008-09-07
Location
Surry, VA, USA
Airport
VA33
Aircraft
Airframes Unlimited USA-1B
Registration
N723JH
Category
Powered parachute
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's improper handling of the powered parachute during takeoff/initial climb.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the powered parachute stated that he started his takeoff roll on runway 27. The parachute canopy partially inflated with a right side end cell closure. The pilot stated, "he did not observe the tangled steering lines on the takeoff roll and failed to ensure that the parachute canopy was controllable". The powered parachute made a hard right turn at liftoff, reached an altitude of about five feet, and the parachute canopy collapsed. The powered parachute impacted the runway hard and rolled over inverted. The airframe received structural damage. The pilot conducted an engine shutdown and exited the powered parachute. The pilot stated there were no mechanical problems with the powered parachute.

NTSB coding

View NTSB final report

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