What happened
On February 11, 2025, at approximately 06:35 EST, an experimental amateur-built Sparker, registration N769DM, was involved in an accident near Asheboro, North Carolina. The flight was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal use.
According to the pilot, the preflight inspection and engine start were completed normally. However, shortly after takeoff, the engine produced an unusual sound and experienced a partial loss of power. The pilot reported an aggressive forward bucking motion that increased in severity.
In response to the engine issues, the pilot attempted to return to the airport and land in the opposite direction on the departure runway. During the landing attempt, the pilot tried to extend the landing gear, but the gear failed to fully extend. Upon touchdown, the landing gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to slide off the side of the runway and over a taxiway. The pilot was not injured.
The investigation
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the aircraft and determined that the N769DM had sustained substantial damage. The inspection revealed that the horizontal stabilizer had separated from the empennage. The aircraft was retained for further examination.