PITTS SPECIAL S 1C
Borger, TX — February 18, 2017
Event Information
| Date | February 18, 2017 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA17CA144 |
| Event ID | 20170221X24348 |
| Location | Borger, TX |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 35.70000, -101.39417 |
| Airport | HUTCHINSON COUNTY |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | PITTS SPECIAL |
| Model | S 1C |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the biplane during takeoff.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that during the takeoff as the tailwheel lifted, the biplane veered "hard right" and exited the runway. He added that he "felt" he had enough speed to fly and attempted to lift off. Subsequently, the biplane struck a tree.
The biplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings.
The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.