Primary finding
Probable cause
The non-rated pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
After performing maintenance to the unregistered powered parachute, the non-rated pilot decided to fly the aircraft in the traffic pattern at a private airstrip. After completing a flight for approximately 20 minutes, the pilot attempted another flight with a passenger. During landing, the pilot stated the aircraft's rear landing gear touched down and the aircraft encountered a gust of wind. Subsequently, the aircraft became airborne again and encountered power lines and a power pole approximately 30 feet above ground level adjacent to the runway. The aircraft impacted terrain and came to rest upright. A postaccident examination of the powered parachute revealed substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical problems with the aircraft prior to the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
After performing maintenance to the unregistered powered parachute, the non-rated pilot decided to fly the aircraft in the traffic pattern at a private airstrip. After completing a flight for approximately 20 minutes, the pilot attempted another flight with a passenger. During landing, the pilot stated the aircraft's rear landing gear touched down and the aircraft encountered a "gust of wind." Subsequently, the aircraft became airborne again and encountered power lines and a power pole approximately 30 feet above ground level adjacent to the runway. The aircraft impacted terrain and came to rest upright. Examination of the powered parachute showed substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the aircraft prior to the accident.