Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control while maneuvering after takeoff.
NTSB analysis
A witness stated that the airplane's takeoff and initial climb appeared normal; however, when the airplane reached midfield, it rolled left. The airplane continued to roll, and it then pitched up. The airplane subsequently returned to a nearly level pitch attitude and then pitched down and collided with terrain. The pilot reported that he did not intentionally roll the airplane after takeoff; however, he was unable to recall specific details regarding the sequence of events and the reason for the abrupt maneuver after takeoff. A postaccident examination of the airframe, including the flight controls and engine, revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12LA317 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 21, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Bridger, Montana
- Nearest airport
- Bridger Municipal (6S1)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built DR-107
- N-number
- N58GH
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.