Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance with the powerlines during the initial takeoff climb.
NTSB analysis
While taking off from a grass airstrip, the passenger felt the powered parachute “tug” to the right and the heading changed 90 degrees. The heading then changed back to the left, and the aircraft was traveling toward powerlines. The pilot reduced the engine power, and the aircraft traveled under the powerlines; however, the parachute contacted the wires. The aircraft swung backwards, and the parachute separated from the wires at which time the aircraft impacted the terrain.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA428 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 11, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Central City, Nebraska
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
BUCKEYE DREAM
- N-number
- N2552G
- 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.