ERA20LA286

The pilot reported that, during the initial takeoff, the airplane was not developing adequate lift and was not climbing as expected. He maneuvered to avoid trees at the end of the runway; however, the airplane collided with the trees and the pilot lost airplane control. The airplane came to rest in a wooded area and sustained substantial damage. Examination of the engine revealed adequate fuel for the flight. Further examination of the engine revealed that one of the spark plug leads became disconnected and there was no postaccident impact damage in this area. The separated spark plug lead most likely resulted in a partial loss of engine power during takeoff.

On August 15, 2020, about 1530 eastern daylight time, an experimental, amateur built Just Aircraft LLC, JA30 Superstol, N146BB, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident at a private airstrip near Clover, South Carolina. The private pilot had minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The pilot reported that he landed at a private, grass airstrip during the flight from York Airport (01SC), York, South Carolina, to Gastonia Municipal Airport (AKH), Gastonia, North Carolina. He landed uneventfully and taxied for a takeoff to the northwest. During the initial climb, he noted that the airplane was not developing lift or climbing as he expected. He maneuvered to avoid some trees; however, the airplane contacted the trees and he was unable to maintain control. The airplane crashed in a wooded area and he was met by first responders. An inspector with the Federal Aviation Administration responded to the accident site and examined the wreckage. He reported that there was substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. There was no fire. The inspector found adequate fuel on board for the flight. The propeller was splintered from contact with trees. Internal engine continuity was established. The linkage to the engine controls was intact. Further examination of the engine revealed that the right, forward cylinder spark plug lead was separated from the plug. There was no evidence of impact damage in this area.