No fatalities

26 Jul 2015: EVEKTOR-AEROTECHNIK AS SPORTSTAR NO SERIES — Eufaula, AL

Eufaula, AL, United States
SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that after his checklist blew out of the airplane, he failed to complete a full recheck before takeoff, resulting in a canopy pop-up and subsequent impact with trees.

Background

According to the pilot's report, the incident occurred during the takeoff roll. The pilot had completed his before takeoff checklist, but the checklist was "blown" outside of the airplane. After retrieving the checklist and restarting the engine, he stated that he "scanned all the instruments but did not go through the complete checklist."

Accident Sequence

As the main landing gear lifted off the runway during the takeoff roll, the canopy "popped up." The pilot attempted to close the canopy, and during this process, the airplane drifted to the left of the runway. The aircraft subsequently impacted trees approximately 8 feet above the ground.

Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and empennage.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Other contributing factors

Effect on equipment