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NTSB Report
April 21, 2020 · Flightstar 2 SL · UNREG
Oakdale, CA
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
April 21, 2020
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Oakdale, CA
Aircraft
Flightstar 2 SL (1997)
Tail Number
UNREG
Operator
Daniel Brittson
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
WPR20CA127
The noncertificated pilot reported that the airplane departed the runway and that, during the initial climb, it could not gain altitude. He attempted to return to the runway, but the airplane landed hard in an orchard. The pilot later reported that, before takeoff, a large helicopter was hovering close to the runway and that he believed the his airplane "entered…[the helicopter's] rotor wash and lost lift." The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The noncertificated pilot’s decision to take off through a large helicopter’s rotor wash, which resulted in his inability to gain altitude during takeoff.
Full Narrative
The noncertificated pilot in an unregistered light sport airplane, reported that he departed the runway during the initial takeoff climb and could not gain altitude. He attempted to return to the runway and landed hard in an orchard. The pilot later reported that prior to takeoff, a large helicopter was hovering close to the runway. "I believe I entered his rotor wash and lost lift." The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings. The uncertificated pilot did not submit the NTSB Form 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time17:45 PDT
Nearest AirportOAKDALE (0nm E)
Runway28
Runway Length3013 ft
Runway Width75 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftFlightstar 2 SL
Tail NumberUNREG
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorDaniel Brittson
Operating RulePart 91
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsHks · 33777 · Reciprocating
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 0 · None · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind310° @ 13 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingBroken clouds 7500 ft
Temperature / Dew Point64 F / 45 C
Altimeter30.05 inHg
Observation Time00:53
Weather SourceWFAC