Aero Adventure ZEPHYR II N3577F accident near Sylacauga, Alabama

Probable cause

The pilot's incapacitation due to a heart attack during takeoff, which led to an in-flight loss of airplane control.

NTSB analysis

During climb after takeoff, the experimental light sport airplane made an extreme right bank and descended nose-down into a grassy area adjacent to the runway. Although the pilot had recently modified the elevator trim, the in-flight upset was not a pitch upset, and examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions. The pilot's most recent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) third-class medical certificate was issued about 8 years prior to the accident. A few months before the accident, the pilot had applied for another FAA third-class medical certificate; however, it was deferred by the FAA due to the pilot’s history of coronary artery disease, hypertension, lymphoma, and diabetes. The pilot's autopsy subsequently revealed that he suffered a fatal heart attack during the attempted takeoff.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA11LA496 for the full record.