Probable cause
The noncertificated pilot’s improper decision to depart with a tailwind.
NTSB analysis
The noncertificated pilot departed to the south in a light sport airplane from a soft dirt field. A witness heard the airplane's engine and saw the airplane make a slight right turn before it impacted a fence and trees at the end of the field. A postimpact examination of the aircraft and engine did not reveal any anomalies that would have prevented normal operation. Wind conditions reported 6 miles from the accident site were from 060 degrees at 10 knots gusting to 14 knots; thus the airplane was likely subject to a tailwind during the departure.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13LA254 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 1, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Lawrence, Kansas
- Nearest airport
- Pvt (Pvt)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
KOLB MARK 3X
- N-number
- N125KP
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.