Pilot Debrief

Champion 7GCBC near Spotted Horse, WY — 2020-05-25

Final reportWPR20CA154
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Date
2020-05-25
Location
Spotted Horse, WY, USA
Aircraft
Champion 7GCBC
Registration
N771CT
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of directional control during an aborted takeoff with a tailwind, which resulted in a noseover.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the takeoff roll, on a moderately downhill sloped field, with what he believed was a calm wind, he noticed that the airspeed was not increasing as anticipated. The pilot chose to abort the takeoff and reduced power and applied full braking application. After the airplane slowed considerably, and losing elevator authority, the tail of the airplane lifted. The pilot was unable to release the brakes in time to avoid the airplane from nosing over and coming to rest inverted. After exiting the airplane, the pilot reported that he noticed that the takeoff was with a tailwind of about 10 to 15 knots and shifting directions. Both wings and the rudder were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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