Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain aircraft control during initial climb which resulted in an impact with a pole, trees, and terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that after he had performed a preflight inspection of the powered parachute and allowed the engine to warm up, he moved the powered parachute into position for takeoff. Prior to takeoff, he applied full engine power and watched the canopy rise and then reduced engine power and checked the canopy lines. He applied full engine power for takeoff, and the powered parachute lifted with no issues. However, when he looked down, the powered parachute was not climbing and headed toward trees. The pilot attempted to adjust the flight path to avoid the trees, but the powered parachute impacted a pole, the trees, and then descended into the ground. The powered parachute sustained substantial damage to the frame. The pilot stated there was no mechanical anomalies with the powered parachute that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23LA272 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 2, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Chetek, Wisconsin
- Nearest airport
- Chetek Municipal/Southworth Ai (Y23)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Six Chuter SR7 XL
- N-number
- N6365A
- Category
- Powered parachute
- Year built
- 1999
- 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.