Amateur-built MXII N1624Z accident near Holy Hill, South Carolina

Probable cause

The pilot’s exceedance of the critical angle of attack during the initial climb, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall at low altitude and a collision with a hangar. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s lack of experience in the accident make and model airplane.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the accident flight was his first flight in this make and model airplane, and he planned to complete a few high-speed taxi runs before deciding to takeoff. During the first high-speed taxi attempt, the pilot lifted the nose wheel up, and after riding on the rear wheels he increased engine power to “slightly lift off”; however, the airplane quickly climbed to 30 or 40 feet above ground level within a few seconds. Subsequently, the pilot reduced power to land, but the airplane immediately entered an aerodynamic stall and rolled to the left. The airplane continued to descend and impacted a hangar which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage and wings.

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He further added that he was unfamiliar with the airplane.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA23LA329 for the full record.