Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control during the takeoff, and her delayed remedial action in aborting the takeoff after the loss of directional control.
NTSB analysis
After the pilot applied full engine power for takeoff, the airplane veered to the left. The pilot attempted to apply right rudder, but was unsuccessful in regaining control of the airplane before it departed the runway surface. The airplane bounced several times as it continued across the grassy area adjacent to the runway and a taxiway before it came to a stop. During the accident sequence the firewall was substantially damaged. Examination of the airplane's rudder and nosewheel steering system revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA12CA302 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 25, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Lancaster, Pennsylvania
- Nearest airport
- Lancaster Airport (LNS)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Evektor-Aerotechnik As SPORTSTAR
- N-number
- N505EV
- 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.