Amateur-built VELOCITY N2357 accident near Andrews, North Carolina

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to engage the turbocharger for takeoff and his improper decision to continue the takeoff with partial power, rather than reject the takeoff.

NTSB analysis

The owner recently purchased the experimental amateur-built, modified airplane. He did not have a lot of experience in the make and model airplane, so he hired the accident pilot to conduct the first flight since recent modifications.

Witness statements and recorded video showed that during the takeoff roll from the 5,500-ft-long asphalt runway, the airplane accelerated slower than normal, used more runway than normal, and lifted off the runway in a nose-high attitude. The airplane then descended back to the runway and bounced before lifting off nose-high again toward the end of the runway. It climbed about 300 ft above ground level while flying a left traffic pattern back to the runway. Near the crosswind to downwind turn, the engine sounded loud, and the airplane descended into a wooded field and a postimpact fire ensued.

The owner stated that the engine was equipped with a fixed-pitch cruise propeller. With the turbocharger engaged, the engine would produce 2,300 rpm; however, with the turbocharger bypassed, the engine would only produce about 2,050 rpm. A spring switch in the cockpit controlled the turbocharger wastegate, to select whether the turbocharger was engaged or bypassed (or midrange). The owner added that, at 2,050 rpm, the airplane would not be able to fly with one pilot and full fuel, which it had for the accident takeoff. The owner reported that he discussed the turbocharger operation with the pilot.

Examination of the wreckage revealed that the turbocharger wastegate was found in an open position. No other anomalies were noted that would have precluded normal operation. It is likely that the pilot had inadvertently bypassed the turbocharger and then attempted to continue the takeoff with the with the engine only developing partial power. His decision to continue, rather than reject the takeoff, resulted in the airplane’s subsequent powered descent and collision with terrain.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA23FA194 for the full record.