Aviation Accident Summary GAA18CA266

Las Cruces, NM, USA

Aircraft #1

N315BD

DIVEN ROBERT NIEUPORT 17

Analysis

According to the pilot in the tailwheel-equipped biplane, the purpose of the flight was to accomplish the first test flight of the experimental, amateur-built airplane. During the takeoff roll, the airplane yawed left when the tail lifted. He reported that the airplane became airborne but would not accelerate. The airplane remained in ground effect, exited the runway, collided with rising terrain, and subsequently nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the rudder and the left main and subwings. The METAR at the airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 40° at 4 knots. The temperature was 81°F, and the dew point was 27°F. The barometric setting was 30.12 inches of mercury, and the airport elevation was 4,456 ft. The density altitude was 6,742 ft. The pilot used runway 8. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

According to the pilot in the tailwheel-equipped bi-plane, the purpose of the flight was to accomplish the first test flight of the experimental amateur-built airplane. During the takeoff roll the airplane yawed to the left when the tail lifted. He reported that the airplane became airborne but would not accelerate. The airplane remained in ground effect, collided with rising terrain, and subsequently nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the rudder and the left main and sub-wings. The METAR at the airport reported that about the time of the accident, the wind was from 04° at 4 knots. The temperature was 81°F and the dew point was 27°F. The barometric setting was 30.12Hg and the airport elevation was 4,456ft. The density altitude was 6,742ft. The pilot used runway 8. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to attain a positive climb rate after takeoff in high-density altitude conditions, which resulted in a collision with terrain.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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