Buckeye Dream Machine N75331 accident near Lexington, Kentucky

Probable cause

The student pilot's improper decision to continue the takeoff.

NTSB analysis

During takeoff from an unimproved grass field, the student pilot of the experimental light sport aircraft powered parachute noticed the right end of the parachute was not fully inflated. He checked the left side of the parachute and it appeared to be fully inflated. When he looked back at the right side a second time, the parachute appeared to be "opened and centered." As he continued his takeoff roll, the student pilot realized he was approaching a shallow ditch and attempted to lift-off. The powered parachute then became airborne. The right main landing gear tire contacted the top of a power line. The power line broke and the aircraft was thrown forward. The buggy, housing the student pilot, oscillated under the parachute as it approached a second set of power lines. The powered-parachute contacted the second set of power lines and the buggy impacted trees approximately 10 feet above the ground, substantially damaging the buggy support bars, the frame, and the suspension lines to the parachute. The student pilot further stated that the powered parachute had no deficiencies during the takeoff and that, "I made a bad decision on the takeoff."

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09CA003 for the full record.