Amateur-built MM1 N824C accident near Longmont, Colorado

Probable cause

The pilot's failure attain/maintain pitch control prior to attaining a proper takeoff speed during takeoff roll, which resulted in a premature liftoff of the airplane and loss of control.

NTSB analysis

The airplane impacted the runway surface during takeoff after it prematurely lifted off and cartwheeled to a stop facing in the opposite direction. The pilot stated that he knew the airplane was not at flying speed when it lifted off, so he moved the control stick forward to return the airplane to the runway surface, but the airplane bounced and veered left. He added additional engine power in attempt to keep the airplane flying. The left wing then dropped and contacted the runway, cartwheeling the airplane. The pilot reported that there was no mechanical malfunction/failure of the airplane at the time of the accident.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN15CA197 for the full record.