FLIGHTstar 2
Oakdale, CA — April 21, 2020
Event Information
| Date | April 21, 2020 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | WPR20CA127 |
| Event ID | 20200420X14437 |
| Location | Oakdale, CA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 37.75639, -120.79556 |
| Airport | Oakdale |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | FLIGHTstar |
| Model | 2 |
| 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 noncertificated pilot’s decision to take off through a large helicopter’s rotor wash, which resulted in his inability to gain altitude during takeoff.
Full Narrative
The noncertificated pilot in an unregistered light sport airplane, reported that he departed the runway during the initial takeoff climb and could not gain altitude. He attempted to return to the runway and landed hard in an orchard. The pilot later reported that prior to takeoff, a large helicopter was hovering close to the runway. "I believe I entered his rotor wash and lost lift."
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings.
The uncertificated pilot did not submit the NTSB Form 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report.
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.