Accident Details
On its maiden flight, a homebuilt airplane experienced engine difficulties shortly after takeoff. Witnesses observed the aircraft climb to about 150 feet before the engine began making a popping sound and trailing smoke. The airplane then leveled off and initiated a 30-degree right turn toward the airport. Shortly thereafter, the airplane appeared to stall. It descended at an angle between 30 and 40 degrees, impacted the ground, slid into an unoccupied barn, and caught fire.
Witness Reports
Several witnesses reported seeing the airplane during takeoff and the subsequent events. One witness specifically noted the popping engine sound and smoke. The airplane leveled off before turning, and the stall occurred during the turn. The aircraft impacted the ground and slid into a barn that was not occupied at the time. The post-crash fire consumed the airplane.
Previous Day's Engine Test
The day before the accident, the pilot-builder conducted an engine test run. During that test, he was advised that the engine appeared to be overheating. No other issues were reported.