29 Aug 2015: AIR CREATION USA LLC SKYPPER NO SERIES — Air America — Stow, MA

No fatalitiesStow, MA, United States

A student pilot's improper steering inputs caused a weight shift control aircraft to overturn during its takeoff roll.

What happened

On August 29, 2015, a Skypper weight shift control aircraft, registration N534AC, was performing a takeoff roll on an asphalt runway in Stow, Massachusetts. During the roll, the student pilot over-controlled the steering pedals, causing the aircraft to tip over. The flight instructor on board reported that the sequence happened too quickly to allow for any corrective actions.

The accident resulted in 2 minor injuries and no fatalities. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to its leading edge tube, control frame, and keel.

The investigation

The flight instructor reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have prevented the aircraft from operating normally.

Probable cause

The student pilot's improper directional control inputs during the takeoff roll, which led to the aircraft rolling over and striking the ground.

Contributing factors

Student/instructed pilotIncorrect use/operation