Tricks Trike Storm near Gaffney, SC — 2025-10-13

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain aircraft control during the initial climb, which resulted in an impact with terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of an unregistered experimental weight-shift-control aircraft was attempting to depart from private property with one passenger onboard. The pilot reported that during the initial climb after takeoff, while attempting to clear trees, the aircraft stalled and impacted terrain. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the aircraft that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control in flight · Takeoff
• Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) · Takeoff
• Loss of Control on Takeoff/Initial Climb

Evidence available

• Photos
• 5 docket documents

Docket documents5

• PILOT/OPERATOR AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT REPORT, NTSB FORM 6120.1form
• MEMORANDUM FOR RECORD A�� FAA INSPECTOR STATEMENTinterview
• FOREIGN NOTIFICATION CORRESPONDENCE (OUO)other
• INVESTIGATION PHOTOGRAPHphotos
• WEATHER REPORTS AND RECORDSreport

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