North American SNJ-5 N9813C accident near Leadville, Colorado

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during takeoff.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot, the preflight inspection was performed and an engine run-up was "completely successful" on the supercharged engine. He advanced the throttle to "full power," noted 2,050 rpm and 20 inches (expecting 2,200 rpm and 32 inches) and released the brakes for the ground roll. After an 800-foot ground roll, the pilot noted 55 miles per hour, 2,100 rpm, and 28 inches. The airplane drifted to the right and the pilot attempted to correct with the application of left rudder and aileron control. The airplane became airborne and the left wing contacted the ground. The airplane settled back to the ground and headed towards the left side of the runway, at which time the pilot elected to abort the takeoff. The airplane became airborne one additional time, departed the runway environment to the left, and impacted several trees, resulting in substantial damage. Density altitude at the time of the accident was estimated to be 11,570 feet. An examination of the airplane systems revealed no anomalies.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for DEN08CA154 for the full record.