Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s incorrect elevator trim setting and his inexperience in the airplane make/model.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
As the experimental Light-Sport Airplane (LSA) accelerated down the runway for its first flight, the airplane’s nose suddenly pitched up approximately 60 degrees. The pilot attempted to lower the nose by applying forward control stick pressure, but to no avail. The airplane stalled, pitched nose down, and impacted the ground, resulting in the collapse of the nose landing gear and structural damage to the firewall. The airplane came to rest in an upright position and the pilot was able to exit the airplane unassisted. The pilot later reported that he had incorrectly set the airplane’s elevator trim, which resulted in the uncommanded pitch up as the airplane approached flying speed. In addition, the pilot reported that this was his first flight in the airplane make/model.
Source record
Factual narrative
As the Experimental, Light-Sport Airplane (LSA) accelerated down the runway for its first flight, the airplane’s nose suddenly pitched up approximately 60 degrees. The pilot attempted to lower the nose by applying forward control stick pressure, but to no avail. The airplane stalled, pitched nose down, and impacted the ground; which resulted in the collapse of the nose landing gear and structural damage to the firewall. The airplane came to rest in an upright position and the pilot was able to exit the airplane unassisted. The pilot later reported that he had incorrectly set the airplane’s elevator trim which resulted in the uncommanded pitch up as the airplane approached flying speed. In addition, the pilot reported that this was his first flight in the airplane make/model.