ARION AIRCRAFT LLC LIGHTNING LS-1 near Ghent, NY — 2012-04-30

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, the airplane encountered a bump in the grass runway during the takeoff roll and lifted off the runway several knots slower than rotation speed. After liftoff, the airplane descended to the left side of the runway, impacted trees, and came to rest in a swampy area, resulting in substantial damage to the wings. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. Postaccident examination of the runway found it to be in satisfactory condition, with no evidence of bumps.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control in flight · Takeoff
• Loss of Control on Takeoff/Initial Climb

Evidence available

• Photos
• 6 docket documents

Docket documents6

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Pilot and Witness Statementsinterview
• Memorandum of Record: FAA Inspectorother
• PSF Weather Observationsother
• Photo 1: View of Airplane at Rest (Courtesy of FAA)photos
• Photo 2: View of Left Wing Damage (Courtesy of FAA)photos

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