Fpna Llc A-22 VALOR N912FP accident near Wurtsboro, New York

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to comply with the manufacturer’s limitations and guidance regarding flaperons usage at low altitude and in adverse wind conditions, which resulted in an in-flight loss of airplane control.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he took off from the surface of the lake in the light-sport floatplane into a 9-knot wind. Once the airplane climbed above the treetops, the pilot initiated a left turn and retracted the flaperons "simultaneously." At that time, the control wheel rotated left, and the pilot was unable to return the wheel to the "neutral" position. The airplane continued in a descending left turn and collided with trees and terrain, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and the tail section. Examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The Pilot Operating Handbook states that flaperons extension are not recommended in a crosswind of 9 or more knots and that the airplane should be at an altitude of 500 feet after takeoff before flaperon retraction.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA13LA346 for the full record.