EVEKTOR-AEROTECHNIK AS SPORTSTAR
Myerstown, PA — August 12, 2012
Event Information
| Date | August 12, 2012 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | ERA12CA506 |
| Event ID | 20120814X25236 |
| Location | Myerstown, PA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 40.35222, -76.32972 |
| Airport | Deck Airport |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | EVEKTOR-AEROTECHNIK AS |
| Model | SPORTSTAR |
| 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 student pilot's decision to continue the takeoff roll while trying to secure an open canopy and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control. Contributing to the accident was the student pilot's failure to complete the pretakeoff checklist.
Full Narrative
The student pilot reported that he intended to conduct a solo flight. He utilized the airplane's checklist, started the engine and taxied to the runway uneventfully. While holding short of the runway and completing pretakeoff checklist items, the student pilot was distracted by an airplane approaching to land. The student pilot missed an item on the checklist, which called for locking the cockpit canopy. During the ensuing takeoff roll, the canopy began rattling and flapping open. The student pilot reached behind his head and attempted to secure the canopy. During that time, the airplane veered left off the left side of the runway and the left wing struck a propane tank. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. The examination did not reveal any preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane, nor did the student pilot report any.
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.