NTSB Reports

Evektor-Aerotechnik SportstarPrior to departure, the pilot checked the weather and noted a storm was moving toward the area, so he needed to depart as soon as possible. During takeoff and while in ground effect, the airplane encountered a wind gust that pushed down the airplane’s left wing. The pilot regained control and continued to climb in order to clear trees near the end of the runway. The airplane encountered another gust and the pilot attempted to compensate. Subsequently, the airplane impacted trees and terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings. Neither the pilot nor his passenger suffered injuries.

Editorial Staff

Wednesday, October 23, 2013 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

A significant number of incidents involved engine power loss or failure, frequently leading to forced landings or ditching due to mechanical issues or fuel mismanagement.
Several accidents were caused by loss of aircraft control, often exacerbated by challenging weather conditions like wind gusts or severe storms, resulting in collisions with terrain or trees.
Aircraft also encountered various external hazards, including animal or bird strikes, power line impacts, and runway excursions due to mechanical failures.

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September 1, 2013, Osage Beach, Mo. Evektor-Aerotechnik Sportstar
Prior to departure, the pilot checked the weather and noted a storm was moving toward the area, so he needed to depart as soon as possible. During takeoff and while in ground effect, the airplane encountered a wind gust that pushed down the airplane’s left wing. The pilot regained control and continued to climb in order to clear trees near the end of the runway. The airplane encountered another gust and the pilot attempted to compensate. Subsequently, the airplane impacted trees and terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings. Neither the pilot nor his passenger suffered injuries.

September 1, 2013, Boulder, Colo. Cessna 182 Skylane
At about 1100 Mountain time, the airplane was substantially damaged when it was ditched into a lake following loss of engine power. The pilot sustained minor injuries. Visual conditions prevailed.
The pilot had flown a group of skydivers to altitude and was returning for landing. The airplane was on final approach when the engine lost power. His attempts to restore engine power were unsuccessful and he subsequently ditched into a lake short of the runway. He reported a clear sky with a light and variable wind.