Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control on takeoff during an encounter with a wind gust.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the powered parachute stated that, prior to the flight, he set up a wind sock in a pasture comprised of hilly terrain and lined by trees. Before beginning his takeoff, the wind sock indicated that the wind was calm. During the takeoff, the powered parachute encountered a gust of wind and was blown left where it collided with bushes. As a result of the impact, the vertical front support tube received structural damage. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA10CA480 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 15, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Pleasant Garden, North Carolina
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Powrachute Llc AIRWOLF 912
- N-number
- N377JA
- Category
- Powered parachute
- 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.