Pilot’s Failure To Maintain Directional Control During Takeoff

Location: Hermiston, Oregon Accident Number: ANC24LA022
Date & Time: March 30, 2024, 17:40 Local Registration: N188CG
Aircraft: Cory Green Kitfox Series 7 STI Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

Analysis: The flight instructor reported that he and the pilot receiving instruction were practicing takeoffs and landings in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. During takeoff, the pilot receiving instruction applied excessive right rudder and the airplane went to the right, he relieved the right rudder, and the airplane veered to the left, traveling diagonally across the runway. 

The flight instructor applied aft pressure on the stick to get the airplane airborne, simultaneously the pilot receiving instruction reduced the throttle to idle. The airplane bounced and impacted terrain and nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage and wings. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. 

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in a nose over. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor’s delayed remedial action.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov