Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to attain/maintain adequate airspeed to become airborne within the distance available for takeoff.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The student pilot attempted a takeoff in his experimental light sport aircraft (powered parachute). On previous occasions, he had successfully become airborne from his backyard. The pilot indicated that during acceleration he was unable to gain adequate lift due to the "stagnant air condition." There was little or no wind and the airplane was carrying a passenger. The powered parachute impacted a garage. The student pilot further reported that he was working on obtaining a sport pilot certificate. The pilot reported that he experienced no preimpact mechanical malfunction with the aircraft.
Source record
Factual narrative
The student pilot attempted a takeoff in his experimental light sport aircraft (powered parachute). On previous occasions, he had successfully become airborne from his backyard. The pilot indicated that during acceleration he was unable to gain adequate lift due to the "stagnant air condition." There was little or no wind. Also, he was carrying a passenger. The powered parachute collided into a garage. The student pilot further reported that he was working on obtaining a sport pilot certificate. The pilot reported that no mechanical malfunction was experienced with the aircraft.