Probable cause
The powered parachute’s encounter with a downdraft/windshear during takeoff, which resulted in a loss of lift.
NTSB analysis
The pilot and passenger departed from a hayfield in the powered parachute. The pilot reported that, just after takeoff, when the powered parachute was 20 to 25 feet in the air, the powered-parachute lost lift and descended. During the forced landing and collision with trees, the powered parachute received substantial damage to its airframe. The pilot added that he was unable to climb or turn the powered parachute. A witness reported that, when the powered parachute was about the same height as the trees, it looked like the powered parachute was caught in a downdraft and the canopy partially collapsed. The witness said that the canopy re-inflated just before the powered parachute impacted trees. The pilot said that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12CA131 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 11, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Alanson, Michigan
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Infinity Power Parachutes Llc CLASSIC 2002
- N-number
- N3902V
- 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.