Accident Overview
On July 4, 2011, at 1301 mountain daylight time, an experimental light sport M Squared Sprint 1000 aircraft, registration N648MA, collided with the ground following a loss of control while maneuvering near Heise, Idaho. The private pilot was the sole occupant and sustained serious injuries. The owner was operating the airplane under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight, and no flight plan was filed.
Aircraft and Preflight Activities
According to the owner, the aircraft had undergone a complete overhaul and refurbishment over the 7 months preceding the accident, including new sails and a motor inspection. The accident flight was intended as a test flight following this work. Before departure, the owner and the pilot reexamined the aircraft and confirmed all controls, instruments, fittings, and connections. An engine run-up was completed, and the engine was reported to be running smoothly.
Accident Sequence
The owner witnessed the accident. After takeoff, the pilot made a 180-degree turn. The aircraft was in a slight climb at an altitude of about 100 feet above ground level when it appeared to stall. The left wing dropped, and the aircraft descended in a steep left bank until impacting the ground. The owner ran to the aircraft and spoke with the pilot while awaiting emergency responders. The pilot stated, "I had no ailerons," and also reported no engine trouble.
Pilot Information
Federal Aviation Administration records indicate the pilot held a private pilot certificate with a single-engine land airplane rating issued on November 15, 1978. His most recent medical certificate was issued on March 3, 1986. The owner reported that the pilot had no previous flight experience in the accident aircraft make and model.
Aircraft Information
Aircraft records provided by the owner show that the aircraft's most recent condition inspection was completed on December 8, 2007, at an aircraft total time of 810 hours. The owner purchased the aircraft in November 2010 and transported it by trailer to his residence.