Primary finding
Probable cause
A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined and the pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the aborted takeoff.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The student pilot of the powered parachute reported that, during the takeoff roll from an airport parking lot, the engine started to "sputter," so he chose to abort the takeoff. While attempting to do so, he lost control of the powered parachute and collided with a fence, which resulted in substantial damage to the airframe. A postaccident examination and test run of the engine revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
On July 10, 2016, at 1845 central daylight time, a Buckeye Dream Machine powered parachute, N3519T, was substantially damaged during an aborted takeoff at Ohio County Airport (JQD), Hartford, Kentucky. The student pilot received serious injuries. The powered parachute was privately owned and operated as a 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed for the flight, which was originating at the time of the accident.According to the pilot, he prepared for takeoff from a parking lot at JQD. He started the engine and began the takeoff roll. During the takeoff roll the engine started to "sputter" and the pilot decided to abort the takeoff. While attempting to abort the takeoff, he "lost control" of the powered parachute and collided with a chain link fence. Examination of the powered parachute by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the left frame support tube was broken from the main tube structure. A mechanic performed a cursory examination of the engine and test run was performed. During the examination and test run, no anomalies were noted that would have precluded normal operation.