Amateur-built DRAGONFLY MKIIH N186JB accident near Camarillo, California

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during takeoff

NTSB analysis

The pilot of an amateur built, tail wheel equipped airplane reported that, during takeoff for the airplane’s first test flight, the airplane lifted off the runway prematurely and unexpectedly. The pilot lowered the nose then over corrected when he tried to flare to stop the descent, however the airplane ballooned up. The pilot reduced engine power to abort the takeoff as the airplane drifted left off the runway and subsequently collided with a taxiway sign. The main landing gear collapsed and both wings were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR22LA006 for the full record.