Pilot Debrief

Just Aircraft LLC JA 30 Superstol near Clover, SC — 2020-08-15

Final reportERA20LA286
Sign in to save
Date
2020-08-15
Location
Clover, SC, USA
Airport
PVT
Aircraft
Just Aircraft LLC JA 30 Superstol
Registration
N146BB
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The separation of a spark plug lead, resulting in a partial loss of engine power and collision with trees.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, during the initial takeoff, the airplane was not developing adequate lift and was not climbing as expected. He maneuvered to avoid trees at the end of the runway; however, the airplane collided with the trees and the pilot lost airplane control. The airplane came to rest in a wooded area and sustained substantial damage. Examination of the engine revealed adequate fuel for the flight. Further examination of the engine revealed that one of the spark plug leads became disconnected and there was no postaccident impact damage in this area. The separated spark plug lead most likely resulted in a partial loss of engine power during takeoff.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted the takeoff upon noticing lack of lift.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

Related mishaps