Midlothian, TX, USA
N4VX
SIBLEY GLASAIR
The pilot reported that, during the initial climb, the high-performance airplane's left wing dropped and that the airplane then turned toward the left side of the runway. The pilot applied corrective control inputs but was unsuccessful in regaining airplane control. The airplane subsequently impacted the ground; a postcrash fire ensued, which destroyed the airplane. Postaccident examination of the airplane confirmed flight control continuity. The pilot stated that he did not have enough time, training, or experience to be flying the high-performance airplane.
On May 24, 2014, at 1049 central daylight time, an experimental amateur-built Sibley Glasair, N4VX, impacted the runway during takeoff from Eagle's Nest Estates Airport, Midlothian, Texas, when the left wing struck the runway surface. The airplane was destroyed by post-crash fire. The pilot sustained serious injuries. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot under 14 CFR Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight that was not operating on a flight plan. The flight was originating at the time of the accident and was destined for Mid-Way Regional Airport, Midlothian, Texas. The pilot stated that soon after the airplane lifted off there was an unexpected left wing drop. The airplane's flight path changed toward the left side of the runway. The pilot applied corrective control input to change the flight path but the control input was "marginally successful." A few seconds later, the airplane impacted the ground and came to rest on the airport ramp. Initially there was no fire, but fuel pouring from the header tank soon ignited. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Inspector confirmed flight control continuity. The pilot stated to FAA Inspectors during a postaccident interview that he did not have enough time, training, or experience to be flying such a high performance aircraft.
The pilot’s failure to maintain lateral control during the initial climb. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to obtain sufficient training and experience to operate the high-performance airplane.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
Aviation Accidents App
In-Depth Access to Aviation Accident Reports
