Pilot Debrief

Champion 8KCAB near Groton, SD — 2020-09-13

Final reportCEN20LA389
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Date
2020-09-13
Location
Groton, SD, USA
Airport
2E6
Aircraft
Champion 8KCAB
Registration
N83DH
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
2
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The pilot’s loss of airplane control during a low-altitude aerobatic maneuver.

NTSB narrative

According to a witness, after takeoff, the pilot accelerated the airplane down the runway in ground effect before pitching the nose up to an estimated 45° angle. The airplane then rolled right and inverted and exited the roll maneuver in a nose-low attitude before impacting the ground. One witness estimated that the roll was initiated between 75 and 100 ft above ground level. Two witnesses reported that the maneuver appeared intentional due to the rapid roll rate. A family member stated that the pilot routinely performed low-level aerobatics in the accident airplane. Examination of the airplane confirmed continuity to all flight control surfaces and no engine or airframe anomalies were found that would have precluded normal operation. It is likely that the pilot intentionally attempted the aerobatic maneuver, lost control, and was unable to recover given the altitude available.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided intentional roll maneuver after takeoff.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents10

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