Excalibur Aircraft Excalibur near Immokalee, FL — 2011-01-30

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during a high speed taxi test resulting in unintentional flight and ground collision.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he was completing high speed taxi tests when the airplane inadvertently became airborne. The airplane climbed to about 50 to 70 feet above ground level and the pilot attempted to touch back down to land. The airplane descended quickly and he applied right rudder and pushed the controls forward. The airplane impacted the ground, incurring substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. Documentation provided by the airplane manufacturer recommended against high speed taxi.

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 6120.1 Memorandumform
• Pilot Statementinterview
• Witness Statementsinterview
• Excerpt from Airplane Manual - Taxi Testingother
• Picture 1: View of Airplane Wreckage (Courtesy of Airport Manager)photos
• Weather Reports - RSW METARsreport

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