Tailwheel Aircraft Strikes Fence After Veering Right During Takeoff

Casualties unknown • Spartanburg, SC, US

A tailwheel-equipped aircraft veered right shortly after takeoff, striking a fence. The pilot attributed the incident to limited experience in this specific type of gear configuration.

What happened

During the takeoff roll, the tailwheel-equipped airplane began to deviate to the right approximately 500 feet down the runway surface. Despite the pilot's efforts to correct the trajectory and halt the aircraft, it traveled an additional 250 feet before colliding with a fence.

The investigation

Post-acc examination revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that the airframe functioned as expected prior to the deviation.

Findings

The pilot noted that his flight experience was predominantly in aircraft with tricycle landing gear. He indicated he had accumulated only approximately three hours of time in the accident airplane, suggesting a potential lack of familiarity with the specific handling characteristics of tailwheel configurations during ground operations.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which was related to his limited experience in tailwheel-equipped aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2007-05-26 Lidgard 4-1200 accident near Spartanburg, SC?

A tailwheel-equipped aircraft veered right shortly after takeoff, striking a fence. The pilot attributed the incident to limited experience in this specific type of gear configuration.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2007-05-26 involved a Lidgard 4-1200, registration N613KF, operated by ON File, at Spartanburg, SC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which was related to his limited experience in tailwheel-equipped aircraft.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070625X00795. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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