Accident Details
On April 5, 2012, at 1130 eastern daylight time, a special light sport Remos GX, registration N75GX, sustained substantial damage during takeoff from runway 06 at Ann Arbor Municipal Airport (ARB), Ann Arbor, Michigan. The airplane was operated by Gemini Aviation LLC of Flat Rock, Michigan, under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The solo cross-country flight was destined for Adrian, Lenawee County Airport (ADG), Adrian, Michigan, with a visual flight rules flight plan filed. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time.
Pilot Statement
In a written statement, the student pilot reported a total of 25.5 flight hours, all in the accident airplane. During the takeoff roll on runway 06, the airplane suddenly veered "hard" to the left. He was unable to correct the turn with full right rudder and aileron. The pilot stated, "...The airplane just jumped up into the air and when it went up it continued to go to the left and then it came straight down." He also indicated there were no pre-mishap mechanical failures.
Damage and Injuries
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, the empennage, and the firewall. Additionally, both the left main and nose landing gears had separated. The student pilot was seriously injured.
Weather Conditions
At 1135, the reported weather at the airport included wind from 060 degrees at 12 knots gusting to 22 knots, visibility 10 miles, scattered clouds at 2,900 feet, temperature 6 degrees Celsius, dewpoint -2 degrees Celsius, and an altimeter setting of 30.05 inches of mercury.