Amateur-built FIRESTAR II N4878P accident near West Alexandria, Ohio

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control after takeoff, resulting in an aerodynamic stall and collision with terrain.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the purpose of the flight was to practice pattern work. After two uneventful takeoffs and landings, he attempted a third takeoff. After liftoff, the right wing dipped, and he corrected with left aileron. The right wing continued to drop, and he added additional left rudder and nose down elevator to avoid a stall. The airplane enterd an aerodynamic stall/spin and impacted a cornfield to the north of the runway. The pilot was seriously injured. An inspector with the Federal Aviation Administration examined the wreckage and determined that damage to the wings and fuselage was substantial. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA23LA026 for the full record.