Pilot Debrief

STRONG DREAM MACHINE near Bieber, CA — 2013-09-03

Final reportWPR13LA398
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Date
2013-09-03
Location
Bieber, CA, USA
Aircraft
STRONG DREAM MACHINE
Registration
N9032Y
Category
Powered parachute
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The pilot’s inability to maintain aircraft control during takeoff after several suspension lines became entangled in, and were subsequently severed by, the propeller blades.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, during takeoff in the powered parachute, he felt a slight tug on the riser lines, which then increased in intensity. He was unable to maintain control of the powered parachute, which subsequently collided with trees. Postaccident examination of the wreckage revealed that, during takeoff, several of the parachute's suspension lines became entangled in the propeller for reasons that could not be determined and were then severed. As a result, it was not possible for the pilot to maintain aircraft control.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted takeoff upon feeling tug on riser lines.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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