Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was flying the airplane for its first flight after being "rebuilt." After a preflight inspection, which included engine run-ups and a high-speed taxi, the pilot commenced the takeoff. When the airplane was about 8 to 10 inches off the ground, the pilot felt the airplane being pulled up and to the left. He lost control of the airplane, and the left wing struck the ground. The airplane nosed over and came to rest off the left side of the runway. A postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the fuselage and empennage. Postaccident examination verified flight control continuity to the rudder and elevator. Further examination of the aileron revealed that the aileron control rod end fractured due to overstress during the impact sequence.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA11LA403 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 16, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Batavia, New York
- Nearest airport
- Genesee County (GVQ)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built Elite
- N-number
- N113SM
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.