According to the pilot in the experimental amateur-built airplane, he was conducting a flight test. During the takeoff roll at the airport in Franklin, Pennsylvania, he applied “too much aft stick,” and the airplane entered an unintentional steep climb at a low airspeed.
The Zenith CH750 rolled left about 30°, he corrected to the right, and the airplane’s nose dropped.
The pilot added he may have reduced the throttle and overcorrected to the right. The airplane stalled and hit the ground.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.
The pilot reported that this was his second flight in the airplane. He added there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Probable cause: The pilot’s excessive application of aft stick during takeoff, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall. Contributing to this accident was the pilot’s inexperience in the airplane.
NTSB Identification: GAA18CA083
This December 2017 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Henry K. Cooper says
Smart thing to do!
Darrin Towers says
And that is why I’m planning to go to Buzz air flight academe to get transition training in the 750 prior to my first flight. And I want to get some upset training before that.
gbigs says
I have flown this aircraft. It is nearly IMPOSSIBLE to stall unless you are doing something idiotic.
Henry K. Cooper says
Agree, but there are people out there who can do the impossible! Watch out!
Henry K. Cooper says
It’s a shame to spend such time and money on a home built project, then scimp on the time it may take to make a few dual flights with a pilot who is familiar with CH750 characteristics. It would also be worth a little trip to Mexico, MO for some flights at the kit factory. Those folks will do about anything to accommodate a customer!
JimH in CA says
It is a stol aircraft, but it will still stall …