On April 5, 2004, a Christen A-1 (registration N9599B) was involved in an aviation accident near Curtis, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's ostentatious display of a "hammerhead stall" during intial climb and his failure to maintain clearance from terrain. A factor was the post impact fire. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane was destroyed by ground impact and fire after attempting a hammerhead stall at low altitude following takeoff, according to a witness.
Accident Sequence
According to a witness, the pilot started the airplane and performed a magneto and propeller check before taxiing. The airplane then began its takeoff roll to the south. After takeoff, the airplane entered a steep climb. When the climb stopped, the witness reported that the pilot "kicked the tail around and attempted a hammerhead stall." The airplane did not have sufficient altitude to recover and impacted the ground with the right wing low.
Post-Impact Fire
The airplane was destroyed by ground impact and the subsequent fire. The witness stated that he did not hear any change in engine power from takeoff until the moment of impact.
Investigation
The investigation is ongoing. No probable cause has been determined at this time.