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Casualties unknown

Experimental Aircraft Collides with Trees During First Flight (N58JM)

Smithfield, NC, US

On April 2, 2001, a Jacques J. Mistrot SKYBOLT (registration N58JM) was involved in an aviation accident near Smithfield, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during climb out that resulted in the in-flight collision with the ground. A factor was the physical impairment. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During its first flight, an experimental airplane entered an uncommanded left turn at 200 feet, developing a nose-low attitude before colliding with trees. Investigation found no mechanical malfunctions; pilot had a prosthetic leg.

Incident Summary

An experimental airplane was conducting its first flight, with the takeoff roll and initial climb appearing normal. As the aircraft climbed through 200 feet, observers noted it entering a left turn that progressed into a nose-low attitude. The airplane subsequently collided with trees located on the right side of the runway.

Investigation Findings

Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed no mechanical malfunctions that could have contributed to the event. The pilot was reported to have a prosthetic leg, though no further details regarding its relevance were provided. The investigation did not identify a probable cause for the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Apr 2001 Jacques J. Mistrot SKYBOLT accident near Smithfield, NC?

During its first flight, an experimental airplane entered an uncommanded left turn at 200 feet, developing a nose-low attitude before colliding with trees. Investigation found no mechanical malfunctions; pilot had a prosthetic leg.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Apr 2001 involved a Jacques J. Mistrot SKYBOLT, registration N58JM, at Smithfield, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during climb out that resulted in the in-flight collision with the ground. A factor was the physical impairment.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010412X00740. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.