Amateur-built Nieuport-12 N12GX accident near Midland, Texas

Probable cause

The pilot’s loss of directional control during a high-speed taxi operation and subsequent collision with terrain during the inadvertent flight.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he and passenger were conducting a high-speed taxi operation with no intention for flight. While on the runway with partial power selected, the pilot was unable to maintain directional control and elected to execute a takeoff to avoid ground obstacles. During the unintended flight, the pilot reported that the airplane did not respond normally to flight control inputs and subsequently impacted terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings. Examination of the flight control system revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN22LA061 for the full record.