Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance with trees during an initial climb following an aborted landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the powered parachute stated that he performed several touch-and-go landings at the departure airport. He then flew to his house where he attempted a landing on a 600-foot-long flat grass strip. During the landing attempt, the pilot was focused on the touchdown point and, when he looked up he noticed that the powered parachute veered off the right side of the grass strip. He added full engine power and attempted an aborted landing. During the initial climb, the powered parachute struck the tree tops. The pilot stated that the powered parachute can take off and land in about 50 feet and that he had not previously attempted a landing at his residence.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot of the powered parachute stated that he performed several touch and go landings at the departure airport. He then flew to his house where he attempted a landing on a 600 foot long and flat grass strip. During the landing attempt, the pilot was "focused" on the touchdown point and when he looked up, he noticed that the powered parachute veered off the right side of the grass strip. He added full engine power and attempted an aborted landing. During the initial climb, the powered parachute struck the tree tops. The powered parachute frame was bent. The pilot sustained a serious injury due to a fractured ankle. The pilot stated that the powered parachute can take off and land in about 50 feet and that he had not previously attempted a landing at his residence.