What happened
On July 10, 2012, at 20:25 CDT, a McHargue Buckeye Dream powered parachute, registration N2552G, collided with powerlines while departing from a private airstrip in Central City, Nebraska. The flight was being conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 without a flight plan. Weather conditions were visual meteorological conditions (VMC) with a visibility of 10 statute miles and winds from 130 degrees at 3 knots.
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft's heading changed 90 degrees to the right before straightening back toward the east. As the aircraft passed under the powerlines, the parachute contacted the wires. The impact caused the aircraft to swing backward, and the parachute subsequently separated from the lines, leading the aircraft to impact the terrain. The accident resulted in one serious injury to the pilot and one minor injury to the passenger. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The investigation
The pilot reported no mechanical issues with the aircraft prior to the accident. The passenger, seated in the rear, noted that while looking back at the parachute during takeoff, he felt a tug to the right. Following the contact with the wires, the passenger observed the engine power decrease and the aircraft descend.