Pilot Debrief

AIR CREATION CLIPPER 582 near Clark, SD — 2015-07-14

Final reportCEN15LA306
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Date
2015-07-14
Location
Clark, SD, USA
Airport
8D7
Aircraft
AIR CREATION CLIPPER 582
Registration
UNREG
Category
Trike
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to maintain control of the weight-shift control aircraft during initial climb due to his impairment from ethanol, methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana.

NTSB narrative

The uncertificated pilot was conducting a personal flight in the unregistered weight-shift control aircraft when it impacted terrain shortly after takeoff. The pilot reported that he does not recall the flight. Video footage taken by the passenger indicated that the aircraft abruptly rolled left about 12 seconds after liftoff, followed by a reduction in engine rpm. A postaccident examination and engine test run revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. Additionally, several airframe and wing brace cables were found tightly wrapped around the propeller shaft, which is consistent with the engine operating at impact. Toxicological testing revealed that the pilot was under the influence of ethanol, methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana at the time of the accident. The pilot's impairment from ethanol intoxication and recent use of illicit drugs likely contributed to his inability to maintain control of the weight-shift control aircraft.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have refrained from flying due to health and substance use issues.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents9

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