On 10 Jul 2011, a RANS S7 UNDESIGNAT was involved in an aviation accident near Cubero, NM. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's premature rotation and insufficient airspeed, as stated by the pilot, resulted in loss of control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a takeoff from a remote dirt airstrip with a downhill slope and slight tailwind, the pilot rotated too soon at insufficient airspeed, lost control after liftoff, struck a fence, flipped inverted, and impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the wing spar and wing strut.
Accident Narrative
The pilot was conducting a takeoff from a remote dirt airstrip. The airstrip featured a slight downhill slope, and there was a slight tail wind. According to the pilot, he rotated the aircraft too soon and the airspeed was too slow. Immediately after liftoff, the pilot lost control of the airplane. The aircraft then struck a fence, flipped inverted, and subsequently struck terrain.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the wing spar and wing strut. No other damage details were provided.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there was no preimpact mechanical malfunction or failure. The pilot attributed the accident to the premature rotation and insufficient airspeed.
Probable cause
The pilot's premature rotation and insufficient airspeed, as stated by the pilot, resulted in loss of control.