On August 12, 2012, an EVEKTOR-AEROTECHNIK AS SPORTSTAR operated by Eugene Honert was involved in an aviation accident near Myerstown, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's decision to continue the takeoff roll while trying to secure an open canopy and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control. Contributing to the accident was the student pilot's failure to complete the pretakeoff checklist. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A student pilot, distracted by an approaching aircraft during pre-takeoff checks, failed to lock the canopy. During takeoff roll, the canopy opened, the pilot reached to secure it, and the airplane veered left off the runway, striking a propane tank.
Accident Details
A student pilot was conducting a solo flight. The pilot used the aircraft's checklist, started the engine, and taxied to the runway without incident. While holding short of the runway and completing pretakeoff checklist items, the student pilot was distracted by an airplane approaching to land. This distraction caused the pilot to miss an item on the checklist that required locking the cockpit canopy.
Sequence of Events
During the ensuing takeoff roll, the canopy began rattling and flapping open. The student pilot reached behind his head in an attempt to secure the canopy. While doing so, the airplane veered left off the left side of the runway. The left wing subsequently struck a propane tank.
Damage and Findings
Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. The examination did not identify any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane, and the student pilot did not report any such issues.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 12 Aug 2012 EVEKTOR-AEROTECHNIK AS SPORTSTAR accident near Myerstown, PA?
A student pilot, distracted by an approaching aircraft during pre-takeoff checks, failed to lock the canopy. During takeoff roll, the canopy opened, the pilot reached to secure it, and the airplane veered left off the runway, striking a propane tank.
Were there any fatalities in the 12 Aug 2012 EVEKTOR-AEROTECHNIK AS SPORTSTAR accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Aug 2012 involved an EVEKTOR-AEROTECHNIK AS SPORTSTAR, operated by Eugene Honert, at Myerstown, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The student pilot's decision to continue the takeoff roll while trying to secure an open canopy and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control. Contributing to the accident was the student pilot's failure to complete the pretakeoff checklist.