Eurofox N281P accident near Millbrook, New York

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported 65 hours of experience in the special light sport airplane that he purchased new a few months prior to the accident. He applied power for takeoff and the airplane veered to the left. He attempted to maintain runway alignment with rudder and aileron inputs, but the airplane continued to veer left as it accelerated. The airplane crossed the parallel taxiway, struck a berm, became airborne, and collided with a hangar. The pilot stated that the engine continued to run after the airplane came to rest, and that he stopped the engine by "shutting off the master and the fuel." During a telephone interview with a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, the pilot stated that he "panicked a little," and never reduced engine power during the takeoff roll or the accident sequence. The inspector stated that his examination of the airplane revealed operational cockpit controls, the throttle control in the full forward position, flight control continuity throughout, and no preimpact mechanical anomalies.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for NYC08LA289 for the full record.