Pilot Debrief

MCHARGUE BUCKEYE DREAM near Central City, NE — 2012-07-11

Final reportCEN12LA428
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Date
2012-07-11
Location
Central City, NE, USA
Aircraft
MCHARGUE BUCKEYE DREAM
Registration
N2552G
Category
Powered parachute
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance with the powerlines during the initial takeoff climb.

NTSB narrative

While taking off from a grass airstrip, the passenger felt the powered parachute “tug” to the right and the heading changed 90 degrees. The heading then changed back to the left, and the aircraft was traveling toward powerlines. The pilot reduced the engine power, and the aircraft traveled under the powerlines; however, the parachute contacted the wires. The aircraft swung backwards, and the parachute separated from the wires at which time the aircraft impacted the terrain.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have turned earlier to avoid powerlines during takeoff.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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