Pilot Debrief

BUCKEYE DREAM MACHINE near Bainbridge, GA — 2024-07-04

Final reportERA24LA297
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Date
2024-07-04
Location
Bainbridge, GA, USA
Aircraft
BUCKEYE DREAM MACHINE
Registration
UNREG
Category
Powered parachute
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1

Probable cause

The non-certificated pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from powerlines while maneuvering at low altitude. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s impairment due to alcohol and methamphetamine use.

Contributing factors

Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s impairment due to alcohol and methamphetamine use.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the unregistered powered parachute did not hold a Federal Aviation Administration-issued pilot or medical certificate. Witnesses stated that the pilot was flying over a highway when the powered parachute collided with powerlines and a postimpact fire ensued. Additionally, witness video showed the powered parachute flying low near the highway and powerlines just prior to the accident. The pilot was fatally injured and fire consumed a majority of the powered parachute. No pilot or aircraft maintenance logbooks were recovered. Toxicological testing results of the pilot’s blood were positive for ethanol and methamphetamine. It is likely that the pilot was impaired by both substances when he failed to avoid the powerlines.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Video
  • Photos
  • 5 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents5

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