Accident Overview
On August 15, 2020, about 1530 eastern daylight time, an experimental, amateur-built Just Aircraft LLC JA30 Superstol, registration N146BB, was substantially damaged in an accident at a private airstrip near Clover, South Carolina. The private pilot incurred minor injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that he landed at a private, grass airstrip during a flight from York Airport (01SC), York, South Carolina, to Gastonia Municipal Airport (AKH), Gastonia, North Carolina. After an uneventful landing, he taxied for a takeoff to the northwest. During the initial climb, he observed that the airplane was not developing lift or climbing as expected. He maneuvered to avoid some trees but the airplane contacted the trees and he lost control. The airplane subsequently crashed in a wooded area and the pilot was met by first responders.
Wreckage Examination
An inspector from the Federal Aviation Administration examined the wreckage at the accident site. Substantial damage was noted to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. No fire occurred. The inspector found adequate fuel on board. The propeller was splintered from contact with trees. Internal engine continuity was established, and the linkage to the engine controls was intact. Further examination revealed that the right, forward cylinder spark plug lead was separated from the plug, with no evidence of impact damage in that area.