BUCKEYE INDUSTRIES DREAM MACHINE near Seymour, IN — 2010-08-14

Probable cause

An inadvertent encounter with turbulence which exceeded the performance capability of the powered parachute.

NTSB narrative

The pilot departed from a private airstrip in a powered parachute for a local flight. He stated that about 30 minutes after takeoff, he was flying about 100 feet above ground level (agl), when he encountered some localized turbulence. He described it as a “swirl” and noted that before he knew what happened the aircraft was on the ground. He added that it had been a smooth flight until the turbulence encounter. The pilot commented that it was sunny when he took off, but as the flight progressed, overcast clouds approached from the north. He estimated the height of the overcast layer at 1,500 feet agl, and noted that there were a few lower clouds in the area as well. The pilot stated that there were no issues with the aircraft prior to the accident.

NTSB coding

• Clear air turbulence encounter · Enroute

Evidence available

• 2 docket documents

Docket documents2

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Conversation Record -- Pilotother

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