Primary finding
Probable cause
the pilot's failure to maintain altitude during an aerobatic maneuver on takeoff. A factor related to the accident was the pilot performing an aerobatic maneuver.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
A witness reported seeing the airplane enter a roll at an altitude of approximately 125 to 150 feet above the ground shortly after takeoff. The witness stated the airplane seemed to come out of the roll but never regained altitude. The post crash inspection found no control anomolies. Metallurgical inspection of aileron control rods revealed no pre-existing cracks.
Source record
Factual narrative
HISTORY OF FLIGHT On April 2, 1994, at 0930 central standard time, a Starduster II SA-300, N107UP, operated as an experimental aircraft by Robert Ely of Baxter Springs, Kansas, impacted terrain 200 yards south of the Baxter Springs Airport and was destroyed. The private pilot received fatal injuries. Visual meteorological conditions existed at the time of the accident and no flight plan was filed. The flight operated under 14 CFR Part 91, and was on a local maintenance check flight following exhaust system repairs. Immediately after takeoff, at an altitude of approximately 200 feet, the airplane was observed rolling inverted and impacting the ground. PERSONNEL INFORMATION Local witnesses reported that the 42 year old private pilot had a history of performing aileron rolls immediately after takeoff and other low level aerobatic maneuvers. WRECKAGE AND IMPACT INFORMATION The airplane impacted in an inverted attitude. Post crash inspection revealed no control system anomalies. A metallurgical examination of aileron control rod fracture surfaces showed overstress type failures, with no indications of fatigue or pre-existing cracks. MEDICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL INFORMATION Toxicological testing was negative for ethanol and drugs. Suitable samples were not available for Carbon Monoxide and Cyanide. No autopsy was performed. -