Were there any fatalities in the 1 Sept 2012 HANDY JAMES L BUCKEYE DREAM MACH accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Sept 2012 involved a HANDY JAMES L BUCKEYE DREAM MACH, at West Caln, PA.

Powered Parachute Strikes Tree During Takeoff

On September 1, 2012, a HANDY JAMES L BUCKEYE DREAM MACH was involved in an aviation accident near West Caln, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s inadequate compensation for the wind during the initial climb, which resulted in collision with a tree and terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB.

A powered parachute veered left during takeoff in a crosswind and struck a tree before impacting the ground, resulting in substantial damage. A witness reported a gust of wind pushed it into the tree, and an FAA inspector found no preimpact mechanical failures.

Accident Details

According to the pilot, the powered parachute took off in a westerly direction with a right crosswind. During the initial climb, the parachute veered left. The pilot attempted to correct with a right turn-bar input, but the cart struck a tree and then impacted the ground. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the airframe.

Witness Account

A witness reported that the powered parachute appeared to be flying normally until a gust of wind pushed it into the tree.

Weather Information

The wind reported at an airport located 4 miles to the southeast of the accident location was from 360 degrees at 5 knots.

Investigation

According to the Federal Aviation Administration Inspector on scene, there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the powered parachute that would have precluded normal operation.

The accident resulted in substantial damage to the airframe. No further details about occupants or injuries were provided in the source.