Probable cause
The pilot's attempt to exceed the climb capability of the powered parachute during takeoff, and his lack of experience.
NTSB analysis
The noncertificated pilot was taking off in a powered parachute from an off-airport site on a personal local flight under Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91, when he collided with trees. According to a state trooper who interviewed the pilot shortly after the accident, the pilot stated that the parachute was not in the right position, and the parachute did not fill with air quickly enough. He related he was unable to climb sufficiently to avoid colliding with trees and falling to the ground. The powered parachute sustained substantial damage, and the pilot received serious injury.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC09CA077 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 10, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Anchor Point, Alaska
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dusk
Infinity COMMANDER
- N-number
- N50204
- Category
- Powered parachute
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.