Amateur-built RV-8 N89EA accident near Angleton, Texas

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from trees during initial climbout.

NTSB analysis

The accident airplane departed third in a flight of four airplanes. The pilot of the first airplane was observed doing a roll during climb-out. The second airplane climbed out normally. As the third and accident airplane was on initial climbout the airplane was observed to do a roll. As the airplane's wings rolled back to a level attitude, the airplane impacted into trees and subsequently the ground. The pilot exited the airplane unassisted, but was later airlifted to a hospital. Following the accident, continuity was established to all of the airplane's flight controls. Due to the pilot's injuries, he could not be interviewed by investigators or submit an accident report form.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA236 for the full record.