Accident Details
On June 1, 2021, at about 1900 central daylight time, an experimental, amateur-built Quad City Challenger II airplane, registration N3821P, was substantially damaged when it struck a tree during an attempted departure from a residential driveway near Wallingford, Iowa. The airplane then descended and impacted terrain. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was not injured. The flight was being conducted as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Investigation Findings
According to responding Federal Aviation Administration inspectors, the pilot attempted to take off from a residential driveway. During the departure, the airplane collided with a tree, subsequently descended, and hit the ground. The fuselage sustained substantial damage as a result of the impact.
Pilot Background
Investigation revealed that the pilot did not hold a pilot certificate. He had recently replaced the engine and propeller on the airplane. The pilot was not a certificated mechanic. He had logged a few flight hours with the new engine and propeller combination prior to the accident flight.
Cooperation and Follow-Up
After initial contact with the FAA, the pilot declined to cooperate further with the investigation. Consequently, a follow-up examination of the engine could not be conducted. No additional information regarding the cause of the accident was obtained.
Aircraft Information
The Quad City Challenger II is a light, single-engine, amateur-built experimental aircraft. The specific engine and propeller details were not determined due to the lack of examination.