Amateur-built S7 N6133M accident near Kemmerer, Wyoming

Probable cause

The pilot’s decision to perform a take-off in high-density-altitude, gusting-crosswind conditions, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall, hard landing and subsequent nose-over.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he filled the airplane with about 100 pounds of fuel and then initiated a take-off. After becoming airborne, a gust of wind hit the airplane from the left. The pilot stated the airplane stalled and dropped about 10 to 15 feet to the grass area next to the runway. The airplane then rolled about 20 to 30 ft, struck an earth berm at a taxiway, and nosed over, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing, fuselage, and rudder.

The pilot attributed the aerodynamic stall to the combination of increased takeoff weight after fueling, a 10,700 ft density altitude condition, and the gusting crosswind. The pilot reported there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA267 for the full record.