This September 2008 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Airborne XT-912. Injuries: 1 Fatal. Location: Chelan, Wash. Aircraft damage: Destroyed.
What reportedly happened: The private pilot had stopped flying about 1970. With the creation of the Sport Pilot rule he decided to resume flying. His second flying career began approximately 11 months before the accident. The pilot received instruction in weight-shift aircraft with the goal of obtaining his sport pilot endorsement. On the day of the accident, he received his solo endorsement and made a one hour solo flight. After resting for about an hour, he attempted a second solo flight. According to witnesses, the pilot performed several touch-and-go landings without incident. During the last takeoff the aircraft climbed at a steep angle, and at an altitude of about 100 to 200 feet AGL, it rolled left, nosed down, and spun into the ground. One witness stated that the engine remained at takeoff power throughout the entire event.
Probable cause: The failure to maintain adequate airspeed during initial climb, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall.
For more information: NTSB.gov
