Amateur-built SHA GLASAIR N629HS accident near Bladenboro, North Carolina

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with a ditch.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the during the takeoff roll on a 2,850-foot-long, 135-foot-wide turf runway, the experimental, amateur-built, tailwheel airplane began to veer left as full engine power was attained. The pilot was unable to correct with right rudder and right brake input. She subsequently attempted to takeoff before the airplane veered too far, but it then began to porpoise. As the pilot started to reject the takeoff, the airplane traveled off the left side of the runway, struck a ditch and came to rest upright. The pilot reported that she had in excess of 1,800 hours of tailwheel experience; however, only 2.1 hours were in the same make and model as the accident airplane. She added that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane and the wind was light and variable at the time of the accident. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration revealed damage to both wings and the fuselage.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA15CA320 for the full record.